FAMILIES journeying through separation or divorce can find Christmas very challenging.

Family separation encompasses feelings of bereavement, grief, loss, shock and disbelief.

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It is so important to seek a good co-parenting relationship with the other parent in order to minimise the emotional impact on the children during the upcoming holiday season.

The impact of separation can cause the children to grieve and feel the loss of the security of their parents with research showing that the negative impact of separation and divorce on children can be reduced and contained if the parents work together in the best interests of the children.

“As a local solicitor who practices in family law proceedings I see vulnerable people across my desk every single day,” Medowie solicitor Brooke Vitnell told News Of The Area.

“Relationship breakdowns, exacerbated by experiences with the family law system and other legal proceedings have been identified as major trigger factors for suicide for both men and women,” Brooke Vitnell said.

Last year someone may have had their entire family around the Christmas table and this year they face a Christmas alone for the first time and are also being told they can’t see their children.

“There are people in our community today who think of taking their life because of parental alienation, separation and the toll of family law proceedings,” Ms Vitnell stated.

If you have a neighbour or a friend who you know is going through a separation and divorce it is important to reach out to them over the Christmas and New Year season.

If you’re going through family separation yourself, please make sure you connect with friends and family, it is important for you to not be alone this Christmas.

Nelson Bay All Saints Anglican Church are having a free Christmas dinner for those who face being alone this Christmas.

Call 49811839 to book for Christmas Day lunch.

If you or anyone you know needs help call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Parents Beyond Breakup Helpline on 1300853437.

By Jewell DRURY