For many immediate and extended families, divorce can be one of the most challenging and traumatic experiences they face. Alongside the added stress, children may experience feelings of loss, anger, confusion, and anxiety as they navigate the transition into their new way of life with their parents living apart. It is not unusual for divorce to leave children feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained during the separation and for years to come. May is designated as National Trauma Awareness Month (NTAM) by the American Trauma Society and Society of Trauma Nurses, highlighting the importance of acknowledging trauma in our lives.

Divorce, especially when it involves children, is a significant hurdle that can have long-lasting effects on everyone involved. Parents need to recognize that divorce is a form of trauma, both for themselves and their children. With the conversation around trauma being highlighted this month, consider taking the time to talk to your children about your divorce and their feelings surrounding it. Helping your children identify how they feel about their divorce gives you space to validate their emotions and helps them feel understood and not alone in their feelings. It also gives you a rare opportunity to share your shared feelings of stress and anxiety. Discussing your experience and raw emotions in an age-appropriate way will help your children feel supported in their vulnerability and understand that their feelings are normal and should not cause them shame.