What is a Silent Divorce?

No two divorces are alike. Couples end their marriages in different ways. For some, it’s a huge blowup with a lot of drama and anger involved. For others, it’s a joint decision that’s amicable.

Some couples decide to end things quietly. They may continue to live together and raise their kids jointly, but they’re not in a romantic relationship anymore. They’re still legally married, but merely putting up with each other.

This is a new trend called a silent divorce, and while the couple may still be together in the same household, they’ve emotionally checked out. There is no more physical touch. They’re pretty much just going through the motions.

But why would someone do this? Why wouldn’t a couple just rip off the proverbial Band-Aid and move on?

When couples stop working on their marriages, they may just continue living together but without the intimacy. Couples often end up in a silent divorce and do not even realize it. They just stop trying. They no longer feel an attachment to each other but instead of taking action and divorcing, they continue staying together.

Some couples stay in a silent divorce phase for reasons such as children and finances. Instead of ending the marriage and moving on, couples stay together, but this is not always the best option.

Are you headed toward a silent divorce? Maybe you’re realizing you no longer have common goals as a couple. Perhaps you don’t see a future with your spouse. Or you constantly do things separately, like vacations and social gatherings. A lack of physical intimacy is also a sign of a silent divorce.

Many high-functioning couples are in silent divorces. They act like everything is OK. They’re great co-parents and seem to have everything worked out but there’s an emotional disconnect.

The spouses feel more like roommates than romantic partners. The focus is on being parents.

A silent divorce can feel like a reprieve when a couple who was constantly fighting before suddenly isn’t anymore. However, arguments in a relationship serve a purpose, as fighting often reflects we’re disagreeing but trying to help our partners see where we’re coming from. Fighting can indicate there’s still some sort of connection. A couple in a silent divorce may not fight anymore because they don’t care.

There’s also an emotional toll. Intentionally trying to avoid your partner takes time and energy. This can cause a person to feel emotionally drained over time.

Seek Legal Help

Divorce is a complicated affair and sometimes doing it quietly, without too much fanfare, is the best option. This is especially true when there are children or financial issues involved.

Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can help you understand your legal rights and options during this difficult time. Fill out the online form or call 954-764-4330 to schedule a consultation today.

Source:

cnn.com/2025/04/26/health/silent-divorce-wellness#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20silent%20divorce,page%20anymore%2C%E2%80%9D%20Moir%20said.