Relationship breakdowns often come at a time of great mental strain for those involved. Depression, anxiety and stress are among the common mental health conditions experienced by people as they seek family law advice. Here, James Belderbos talks about the various support services available to you if you’re going through a tough time.
If you need the services of a family law solicitor, you may be going through a very difficult period in your life.
It’s normal for a relationship breakdown to cause mental ill health, such as stress and depression. There are many possible reasons for this. You may be devastated by the split. Or you’re probably anxious about your financial situation or how much time you will now spend with your kids, for example.
At the same time, it is common for mental illness to be the cause of relationship difficulties. Whether it’s the cause of your split or caused by it, you would not be alone in seeking family law advice at a time of great mental strain or anguish.
As a family law firm, we want to do everything we can to help you reach a better place, giving you a positive outlook for your future.
If you are searching for legal advice about a divorce amid mental health struggles, then don’t suffer alone. Alongside the advice we can give, we encourage you to also reach out to people who can help you cope with your situation. Below are a number of organisations who are there to help you…
The Samaritans
You might just want someone to talk to, such as The Samaritans. The Samaritans are there to talk to if you’re going through a tough time. They’re experienced at listening to people with suicidal thoughts. ‘When you’re desperate or on the edge, we can help you get through that moment,’ they say.
You can call The Samaritans for free on 116 123. They are there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This link gives details about other ways to get in touch with The Samaritans.
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK
Suicide Prevention UK encourages you to always call 999 first in a life-threatening emergency. But it also promotes the National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK – 0800 587 0800. This is a compassionate and understanding lifeline for those grappling with their mental well-being or thoughts of suicide. If you encounter any issues getting through to someone, an alternative option is available at 0800 689 0880.
Its lines are open every day from 6 pm until midnight, offering a safe haven for anyone who needs someone to talk to.
‘You're not alone - please don't hesitate to reach out,’ says the team.
Shout
Shout is a free, confidential and 24/7 text messaging service for anyone in the UK who needs support. If you’re struggling to cope and need to talk, but don’t want to speak to someone on the phone, you can text a Shout Volunteer on 85258.
For more information, visit the Shout website here.
Papyrus
Papyrus is the charity behind HOPELINE247. This is a confidential helpline for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide. Or it is for anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about taking their own life.
The helpline is available 9pm-12pm. Call 0800 068 4141.
For more information about Papyrus, visit the website here.
SANEline
SANEline is a national out-of-hours mental health helpline offering specialist emotional support, guidance and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including family, friends and carers.
It is normally open every day of the year from 4pm to 10pm on 0300 304 7000, serving the UK and Northern Ireland.
‘Our helpline is here to support you – particularly if you feel you have reached a moment of crisis’ says SANELine. ‘We know that moment of crisis is different for everybody – some people can reach that point daily, and for some people it is a rare occurrence. Our trained helpline volunteers aim to be empathic and non-judgemental, providing space and time for you to talk about your mental health, or the mental health of someone close to you.'Belderbos Solicitors
We are a specialist family law firm, not experts in mental health We are, however, a compassionate, caring team who understand the challenges that many of our clients face when seeking advice from us. A relationship breakdown can put a strain on your mental health, and you may well be visiting our website while feeling low, stressed or anxious.
You may like a little more support, and whilst offering you a supportive service, we often refer our clients to counsellors or coaches to assist getting through this process. We can discuss with you your needs throughout your case.
We hope this website page is a helpful resource for you if you need some support at a difficult time in your life. If this is you, please make sure you reach out and get help.
