During divorce, emotions are at an all-time high. In some cases, the stress and pressure of divorce can lead to depression – but what if it’s your ex, not you, who’s suffering from depression? What if the situation becomes even more serious, and your ex making threats toward you or threatening self-harm?
If your ex has threatened you or has physically harmed you, make sure you’re safe; call the police and go to a safe location as soon as you’re able. Your next step: let your Raleigh divorce lawyer know. You may be able to get a judge to issue a domestic violence restraining order. If your ex is making threats of self-harm, things can get a bit more complicated.
When Your Ex Threatens Self-Harm During Divorce
While you may or may not feel a sense of obligation to your ex during your divorce, if he or she is threatening self-harm or suicide, there are ways you can help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is equipped to give potentially life-saving advice to people in situations like yours.
Is it Serious?
Threats of self-harm or of suicide are always serious, even if your ex probably wouldn’t follow through. You’re better off overreacting than under-reacting, according to psychologist Dr. Lisa Firestone. In situations like these, it’s best to hear your ex out and try to understand why he or she is in crisis mode. It’s a good idea to get help right away, even if that means texting someone to call for help so that you can stay on the phone or stay with your ex.
What to Tell Your Attorney
Like with all situations that arise during your divorce, it’s best to keep your lawyer in the loop. Make sure you let him or her know if you’ve had to seek help for your ex or if your ex is making threats, because it might affect your case (particularly when it comes to child custody).
Helpful Phone Numbers
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800)273-TALK (8255)
The National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800)799-7233; TTY (800)787-3224
Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill Crisis Line: (800)844-7419
