Relationships can be difficult even under normal circumstances; however, there is no doubt Covid-19 put a strain on even the strongest relationships. We reflect on the impact of the pandemic on families.
Over the past 2+ years, lockdowns, social distancing, and travel restrictions have forced couples to spend an increased amount of time together. Together with the pressures of working from home, home-schooling, health concerns and job/income loss, the pandemic has created a ‘perfect storm’ for relationships to break down. Even couples who weren’t facing problems before the pandemic are now more susceptible to break-ups.
In 2020, 49,510 divorces were granted in Australia, an increase of 1.9% from 2019. It’s important to note, these statistics do not include de facto relationships. While the impact of the pandemic on divorce rates may take several years to manifest fully as couples need to be legally separated for 12 months for a divorce to be granted, we have seen a substantial increase in the last 12 months. Not surprisingly, 2020 saw the largest annual marriages decrease ever, a 30.6% decrease from 2019.
Covid has directly impacted the mental health of many Australians. In the 4 weeks to 19 September 2021, Lifeline reported several record-high daily call volumes, up 14.1 and 33.1% from the same period in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Kids Helpline was up 4.6% and 16.7% from the same period in 2020 and 2019, respectively. And Beyond Blue, down 2.7% and up 20.9% from the same period in 2020 and 2019, respectively. (Source – Australian Government, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare)
Anecdotally, among our clients and their families, we have seen a substantial increase in mental health difficulties and substance abuse with previous recreational use becoming habitual use and the associated flow on effects of this on families. We have also been forced to consider the vax, or not to vax argument, which is another increasingly contentious issue with many separated or divorced families.
As an example, in our practice we have seen some resistance by one or the other parent to kids being vaccinated. The general ruling around this is, if the parents cannot come to an agreement, the Court decides based on the children’s best interests and has, to date, made orders that a child be immunised in accordance with National Immunisation Program Schedule.
We work closely with family and individual counsellors to help support families experiencing such difficulties and sincerely hope that as life does return to normal, we will see less of these issues.
If you are thinking about separating or have already separated, please contact De Saxe O’Neill Family Lawyers by calling 9948 3820 or emailing reception@dofamilylawyers.com.au