Divorce Filings Surge in Summer, Not Just in January
"Divorce Lawyer" Searches Up 4,950% Over Five Years
Experts Cite Summer Weather and School Breaks as Key Factors
Trend Spreads Globally, With Social Media Also Driving Divorces
An analysis has found that divorce filings surge during the summer months.
On July 1, international media outlets such as the New York Post reported that SplitUp, a U.S. divorce support application, analyzed Google Trends data and found that over the past five years (from June 2020 to June 2025), searches for "divorce lawyer" increased by 4,950%.
Previously, divorce filings were concentrated on the first Monday of January, when conflicts often peaked due to year-end and New Year stress. This day was even referred to as "Divorce Day." However, in June 2024 alone, the number of searches for "divorce lawyer" reached 30,600, which was 13% higher than in January of the same year. SplitUp explained that "the summer season is becoming a new turning point."
Experts analyzed that summer weather may influence the desire for divorce. American psychologist Dr. Daniel Forshee explained, "During the summer, when there is more sunlight, changes in brain chemistry can intensify emotions and increase the longing for an independent life." There is also a perspective that summer vacation provides both children and family members with time to adjust to changes, making it a relatively less burdensome period for couples considering divorce.
Dr. Forshee said, "While children are out of school, they have time to get used to a new environment, and parents can focus on divorce proceedings during a relatively less busy schedule."
The "summer divorce" trend is not limited to the United States. Dr. Forshee noted, "In countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Singapore, and South Africa, divorce filings also increase during the summer months," adding that "this is part of a global trend to redefine relationships."
Divorce attorney Padideh Jafari pointed out, "Losing the balance between work and family is the most common problem," and added, "Prioritizing work over family can worsen relationships."
Jafari also noted that social media has recently emerged as a major cause of divorce, stating, "There are increasing cases of people reconnecting with former partners or secretly exchanging messages with others. While someone else may appear more appealing, it is important to make an effort to care for your own family."
She also warned that rushing into marriage can increase the risk of divorce. "If someone is truly your lifelong partner, there is no need to hurry," she advised, adding, "It is best to observe your partner in various situations and make a decision about marriage only after sufficient consideration."
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