It’s not a fairy-tale ending for everyone. While fewer Americans are getting divorced, the rates have continuously climbed for adults over 50. This “grey divorce” trend is fueled by various factors. A recent post from Forbes cites reasons that include financial issues, infidelity, and the not-so-simple struggle of growing apart. Longtime couples dedicate much of their lives to raising children, leading them to face major changes in their marriages once the adult kids leave the home. 

The baby boomer generation seems also susceptible to mental health stressors. While the exact reasons for conditions like depression warrant further research, expert professionals attribute the prevalence of mental health issues to challenges that include caregiving for multiple generations as well as social circumstances. However this plays into divorce, baby boomers are clearly dealing with these struggles by self-medicating. To find out more, and better understand the connection to rising rates of grey divorce, relax, put on your headphones and listen here. 

Finally, a split in an older couple doesn’t just take its toll on the spouses. It can also have a serious impact on their adult children. Despite the fact that they’re grown up, these adult children can have an extremely difficult time adjusting to new family dynamics. Divorce proceedings can lead adult children to carry the extra burden of managing finances and caregiving responsibilities. Fortunately, there are actions to take to reduce these stresses, like setting boundaries, encouraging mediation, and coming up with a specific plan for family gatherings. So stay calm and read more here.