Gray divorce refers to couples 50 years and older who are ending their marriage. Research indicates that the divorce rate for this population in the U.S. has doubled since 1990 and is expected to continue to rise. Often, adult children of these divorcing parents feel ignored and unheard but still expected to cope with a situation they are in no way prepared for.
I listened to a young man’s voice on my therapy office voicemail. “Hello, my name is Alexander. My dentist told me I should see you, and you could help me.” His voice caught in his throat. “Ugh, I’m sorry. This is, ugh. I don’t know what to say. Please call me when you can. Thank you.”
Soon after, Alexander*, 23, sat on the love seat diagonal to me. Friede was nestled next to him as he softly stroked her head.