The breakup of a relationship is usually the source of major conflicts and deeply debilitating states of stress and anxiety.
Bereavement mechanisms arise related with financial stress, family, home, dreams and future.
New technologies have brought new challenges to modern life; a much wider variety of possibilities and risks are now inside the house and at the touch of a button.
Long lost contacts, online information, groups, support, debate, dating, … this is now all available.
Being connected to virtual networks has become so natural in our culture that people may find difficult to switch off from their phones and on with the people in their life. A new phobia has even been classified: Nomophobia– the fear or anxiety of not having access to a mobile phone, and which includes also not having reception or battery.
Change in the family habits and the progressive isolation of each individual in the home means that each member can escalate to a less functional state without being noticed; or, by the time this has been noticed, it is often too late.
Work issues and people are now present at home, any time day or night; and so are any issue, any person.
With this increased online activity comes also a raised effort in staying connected, offer an attractive profile and seek feedback and approval. Online bonding appears to be increasing faster than the traditional family bonding rituals.
It is no surprise that this often results in the family drifting apart and ultimately, its breakup.
A breakup inevitably brings an assembly of destructive emotions such as guilt, resentment, deception, shame, feelings of failure and so many others. The breakup of a family is understandably a very traumatic experience to everyone involved and especially when children are involved.
Even more stress is added when it becomes necessary to sell (and often move) home, negotiate possessions and time with children, deal with legal litigation and fees, redefine roles with the wider family and friends and so on.
Sometimes, relying on a network of support is sufficient to pull through this exceptional period; other times professional help may understandably be needed.
With my professional help I may be able to help you deal with each of the complex components of separation, minimize its hindering effects and strengthen your capacity to feel in control.