Some people will do anything to win during a custody battle. Even though the child’s best interests should be the only concern, some co-parents will find anything they can to try and prove that they’re the only parent capable of caring for their child. In some cases, we’ve even seen parents go so far as to say that the fact that their co-parent is on an antidepressant is proof that they’re not a good parent.
Depression may be situational and it may be chemical
In some cases, depression is situational. For example, who wouldn’t become depressed if their spouse was cheating on them, they were going through a difficult divorce, or there were other big changes in their lives? In other cases, clinical depression, which is chemical, may have been going on for a long time.
Either way, the wise thing for any parent to do is to seek treatment for their depression. The correct way to treat it will vary on a case by case basis but may include therapy, antidepressants, anti-anxiety pills, or alternative therapies. The unfortunate part is that it’s possible for the co-parent to accuse the depressed person of being incapable of caring for the kids due to the medications.
We can help you show the courts that your depression doesn’t affect your ability to parent
If you choose to work with Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell for your family law needs, you can count on us to work hard to show the courts that your depression doesn’t have anything to do with your ability to partner. We can prove that your prescriptions were recommended and prescribed by a doctor, that you’re following your doctor’s treatment schedule, that you’re not abusing the drugs, that they’re not adversely affecting you, and that your depression is not keeping you from caring for your child.
Don’t fall prey to threats
If your co-parent is trying to use your depression and its treatment as ammunition against you in a custody dispute, then you must contact an attorney right away. Are they trying to say that you’re not going to get the kids because of your depression or medication? If so, then you should file for divorce and / or custody modifications before they can.
Getting help shows that you’re a responsible person
The reality is that it’s harder to seek help than it is not to. The fact that a person has gotten help from a doctor and is taking the doctor’s advice doesn’t show that they’re a bad parent – it shows that they’re responsible and willing to do whatever it takes to be able to care for their child.
Every divorce case requires an attorney and every custody case does too. If you’re worried about what your co-parent will use against you, then contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell today. We are here to go over all your concerns and let you know how you can come out ahead. Call 909-482-1422 to set up your consultation.
