Many factors can influence whether or not a divorce is preferable to an unhappy marriage. Some people may choose to stay in an unhappy marriage for financial or social reasons, while others may feel that they cannot continue living with their spouse. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a divorce rests on the individual and must be made based on what is best for them.

Reasons to Consider Divorce

Divorce will take less strain on your mental health

If you choose to stay in an unhappy marriage, you may experience significant emotional and psychological distress, leading to feelings of sadness, anger, resentment, and even depression. In contrast, divorce allows you to move on from a toxic relationship and focus on your well-being.

You deserve to be happy in your relationships

No one should have to settle for an unhappy marriage just because they are afraid of being alone or cannot afford to support themselves after a divorce. When you pursue a divorce, you allow yourself to find true happiness with someone who truly loves and values you.

Divorce can provide financial stability

While many assume that getting a divorce will leave them financially worse off than staying in an unhappy marriage, this is not necessarily the case. You may be better off after a divorce, as there are often significant financial benefits to be gained, such as reduced expenses, shared custody of children, and more.

Divorce can help you move on from a toxic relationship

When you are stuck in an unhappy marriage, there is often little hope for things to improve. Pursuing a divorce can give you the freedom and space to move on from your toxic relationship and start over with someone who makes you truly happy.

Divorce allows you to set an example for your children

If you have children, it is essential to consider the example you want for them. Staying in an unhappy marriage may signal that settling for less than you deserve is acceptable. Pursuing a divorce can help your children understand that they can create the lives they want by staying true to themselves and their values.

Divorce can help you regain your independence

When you are stuck in an unhappy marriage, your partner may become overly controlling and critical of your decisions. Pursuing a divorce can allow you to reclaim your independence and make choices about who you spend time with, where you live, and how you live your life.

Divorce allows you to move on from the past

It can be challenging to leave your feelings behind if you have experienced significant hurt or trauma in your marriage. Pursuing a divorce can help you move on from the past and create a new life free of pain and resentment.

Reasons some may stay in an unhappy marriage

Staying in an unhappy marriage is a sign of commitment

For some people, staying in an unhappy marriage can be viewed as a sign of commitment. Staying together for your children’s sake or avoiding social stigma is the right thing to do, even if you are unhappy in your relationship.

Divorce is expensive and time-consuming

While divorce can offer significant financial benefits, it requires you to invest time and money into legal fees, new housing arrangements, and more. These additional costs may seem overwhelming for someone who is already struggling financially or lacks support from friends or family.

Some believe that divorce goes against religious values

Religion plays a central role in their lives and may shape their views on marriage and divorce. For these individuals, pursuing a divorce may seem like a violation of religious values or an admission that they made a mistake in getting married.

Divorce can be emotionally draining

Divorces are often highly stressful, requiring you to deal with complex legal issues and your own emotions. If you lack support from friends or family members who can help you through this difficult time, it may be challenging to pursue a divorce. Those going through a gray divorce may use this reason to stay married. 

Some fear being alone

Many people are afraid of being alone, especially after being married for years. While it is certainly possible to find happiness after a divorce, the idea of starting over may cause some people to stay in an unhappy marriage.

Some believe that divorcing their spouse will reflect poorly on them

Divorcing your spouse may seem like a personal failure in the eyes of others, even if you are unhappy in your relationship. For these individuals, staying in an unhappy marriage may be preferable to facing social stigma or shaming from friends and family members.

Some may be afraid of change

To get divorced, individuals often need to make significant changes in their lives. It can be challenging for someone already struggling with depression or anxiety. They may choose to stay in an unhappy marriage rather than face the additional pressure of transitioning into a new life.

While divorce may seem like the easier option in an unhappy marriage, it is not always the best thing to rush into. It’s important to consider all your options seriously and decide whether divorce is the right decision for you and your family. In most cases, divorce lawyers can help couples discuss options that work out better than divorce. Choosing divorce can turn quite complicated quickly, including matters such as alimony and child support. Even if divorce winds up being the only alternative, taking time to research divorce lawyers who have experience working with people in similar situations can help make the process smoother and less costly in the long run.