It sounds ridiculous, the idea that a divorce, much like a cold virus, can spread from one person to another. But sometimes truth is stranger than fiction, and as it turns out, some studies show that a friend getting divorced can make you that much more likely to divorce as well ”“ up to 75 percent more likely.
Why?
Relax ”“ it doesn’t work like a virus. Usually, you will only “catch” the divorce bug if you were already considering a divorce. Here’s how it works:
Your friend, who you have always discussed your relationship problems with, decides to call it quits on his or her marriage, and then you’ve got a front-row seat to the process. You get to see what divorce is like, how the process of property division happens, what it is like to discuss your case with a lawyer. The seed is planted when you see the process in person, and all of a sudden, it looks less complicated than you expected. Less intimidating. Not only that, but you know that, at the very least, you have one person you can talk to about your own divorce ”“ someone close to you that you know has already been there.
So, if a friend is getting divorced but you are worried that it might hurt your own marriage, should you separate from that friend for a while? That is entirely up to you, but don’t throw away a friend because they are getting divorced and you’re worried about your own marriage. They are going to need support and friendship from you during this difficult time ”“ and you might need them in the future.
Divorce is difficult. In your time of need, you should discuss your case with a Denver family law attorney who knows the ins and outs of divorce law.
