Family Estrangement
Family Estrangement
Family estrangement can happen for a variety of reasons, such as disagreements, conflicts, or misunderstandings. It can be a painful experience for everyone involved, and it can have long-lasting effects on the mental health and wellbeing of those affected. Unfortunately, there are no official statistics on the number of families who become estranged in the UK, as it is often a private matter that people don't share with others. However, some studies and surveys can give us an idea of how common this issue is.
According to a 2015 survey conducted by Stand Alone, a charity that supports people who are estranged from their families, almost 8% of the UK population (around 5 million people) have experienced family estrangement at some point in their lives. Out of those, 42% said that the estrangement lasted for more than five years, and 27% had been estranged for over a decade. The survey also found that the most common reasons for family estrangement were abuse (emotional, physical, or sexual), followed by disagreements about lifestyle choices, money, and inheritance.
Another study conducted by the Centre for Family Research at the University of Cambridge in 2017 found that family estrangement is not limited to a particular age group or demographic. The study surveyed 807 participants aged between 18 and 94, and found that 8% of the respondents reported being estranged from at least one family member, with the most common reason being a breakdown in communication. Interestingly, the study also found that family estrangement was more common among women than men, and among those who identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
The effects of family estrangement can be devastating for those involved, and it's important to seek support and help if you're going through it. The Stand Alone survey found that 85% of respondents reported a negative impact on their mental health, with feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness being the most common. Family estrangement can also affect physical health, with studies showing that it can lead to higher rates of chronic illness, such as heart disease and diabetes.
In conclusion, family estrangement is a complex and emotional issue that affects a significant number of people in the UK. While there are no official statistics on the number of families who become estranged, studies and surveys suggest that it is a common issue that can have long-lasting effects on mental and physical health. If you're going through family estrangement, it's important to seek support and help from friends, family, or professional services.