Coronavirus pandemic is affecting many families in ways we could never have predicted, and this has a significant financial and emotional impact. Families, especially those undergoing a separation or divorce, are now accustomed to the pandemic throwing curveballs every three or four months. This is no different with the Omicron variant affecting divorcing couples.
Here are just a few of the many negative impacts COVID-19 has had on our everyday lives:
- During this time, many children will be home from school for weeks rather than months.
- A large number of people are working at home for the first time, or worse, losing their jobs.
- Many fear that the economy will not bounce back for some time.
- “Stay at home” orders and “Curfew” are in effect in some provinces.
- Anxiety and unrest are certain outcomes. The perfect storm for stress exists even in the happiest of households.
Should I Be Concerned About the Omicron Variant?
As a result, health organizations have been alerting the public that Omicron is spreading new COVID-19 infections around the world-particularly in places with low vaccination rates.
However, experts say there’s no need to panic despite the rising COVID-19 numbers as vaccination is available to everyone from ages 5 to 19, booster shots are available to those 16 and older, and health officials know how to prevent the spread of this virus.
Even with widespread frustration and concerns, this is the time when it is even more important for you to keep your children from being drawn into divorce and court battles. The following tips will help you do just that:
1) Stabilize yourself
It is vital to keep calm in the home during the current Coronavirus outbreak, as temperatures may literally rise and the virus may result in closer quarters or even quarantines.
2) Improve your co-parenting skills
Make sure you maintain the relationship between your children and their other parents. Keep your tone neutral and your children’s interests at the forefront when you speak with your ex-spouse.
3) Being transparent is important
Make sure that you and your child are transparent about where you are staying, especially if you are quarantined or self-isolated. That means that the other parent must be notified before traveling, regardless of whether it is by car or airplane.
4) Communication is key
As a result, you may have to talk more about your children’s health, emotions, and homeschooling than you usually do. In order to accomplish this, you must include the other parent in your conversations.
5) Know what you’re doing
Keep in mind that the court orders are still in effect, and remember to abide by the orders with regards to access, phone calls and FaceTime.
6) Flexibility is important
Changing the school schedule and dealing with medical issues may be necessary.
7) Be reasonable.
In a situation like this, a good safeguard is to consider what is in your child’s best interest.
To Conclude
It is important for you to remember that there are numerous resources available to you. A mental health expert who specializes in this type of issue may also be helpful in addition to working with a lawyer. During periods of high transmission, like the current Omicron surge, layer your defenses and reduce your household’s exposure to risk.
When you are going through these incredibly stressful times, you must make your children’s mental and physical well-being a priority.
Take care of yourself and stay healthy!
At Hussain Law, we focus on helping our clients navigate the emotional and financial challenges of separation and divorce. Our office remains fully operational, and we have implemented various new procedures that allow us to continue to advise clients seamlessly during this time. If you have a family law issue that you need assistance with, please contact Ayesha Hussain at 647-428-3919.
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