Relate Cymru is anticipating a peak in calls this autumn from couples whose relationships have reached crisis point over the summer. Relate tends to see a peak in calls each September and is expecting this year to be no different.
This is why their counsellors in Wales are urging anyone experiencing relationship issues to seek support before heading to the divorce lawyers, who are also inundated at this time of year.
Gwilym Roberts, National Director at Relate Cymru said:
“There are several potential reasons for this post summer peak. First of all, summer holidays, whilst meant to be fun, can also be a stressful time for parents as they have to find childcare and ways to keep the kids entertained. If this doesn’t work out, it can put pressure on the relationship. Sometimes going away for a summer holiday and spending every day with your partner can bring tensions that already exist in a relationship to the surface. It’s not unusual for a couple to have a big bust-up while on holiday, or for an affair to be revealed.
“Finally, people often tend to put off seeking support until after the summer when the kids are back at school. September is a new school year and much like the new calendar year, can feel like a good time to make a fresh start. However, often by this point, things are already at crisis point and kids may have witnessed arguments which can affect their wellbeing and performance at school, so it’s best to get in touch with Relate as soon as possible.”
According to the latest data, 91% of Relate’s relationship counselling clients said that their communication was “a bit better” or “much better” after attending relationship counselling and 84% felt able to cope with any difficulties they might face in the future.
Relate’s research has found there are 1 in 5 people in the UK in a distressed relationship and that parents with children under the age of 16 are the most likely to be affected.*
Relate Cymru offers a range of services across Wales including relationship counselling, sex therapy, family counselling and young people’s counselling. Please call 0300 003 2340 or visit relate.org.uk to find out more.
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