Separated Parents, Children and Christmas Time

It’s one of the biggest celebrations of the year – associated with presents, lots of food and drink, happy holidays, family get togethers, a time to worship, relaxation and fun…

But when families separate, Christmas can be a sad time for some people, especially the first Christmas after the break-up, and if the children are with the other parent. It can also be a real pressure point for separated parents, especially if relations between them aren’t amicable.

Children caught up in the conflict and tension of a family break-up may feel a range of emotions – anxious, sad, confused, left out, angry, depressed, lonely – or even torn between parents who themselves are dealing with similar emotions – often these feelings intensify at Christmas.
 

By Mike Friganiotis

Cairns Family Relationship Centre

Community Education Officer