Holiday Blues: When Your Child Doesn’t Come Home

The reality for many people after a divorce is that they struggle. They may be depressed or anxious. They may be focused on getting back on their feet and trying to do their best.

Not having their children with them is hard enough, but when the holidays come around, that depression can deepen. The holiday blues are real, and they can impact your life significantly when you least expect it.

Are there any ways to beat the holiday blues?

As a parent, it is hard to miss your children during the holidays. There are good options for you to see them, though, even if they’re far away. You could, for example, set up a video call with them and watch them open presents that you’ve sent them by mail. You could get permission to stop by your ex-spouse’s home on Christmas morning or to make a holiday phone call to connect with your children on this special day and share their excitement.

The truth is that a lot of your holiday traditions may have changed, but you can make new traditions that work for your family. Even though you won’t see your children on the actual holiday, you can still make holiday traditions that work for you. For example, on the last day you’ll see them before the holiday, set that up as your own “Christmas Day” or “New Year’s Eve.” There’s nothing wrong with having the holiday a few days early or late because, at the end of the day, it’s the experience with your children that matters the most.