Why December 11 is known as breakup day as Australian couples are more likely to call it quits two weeks before Christmas

December 11 is known to be the most common day for Australian couples to break up due to increasing stress over the holiday period.

Although Christmas is considered the most joyful time of the year, the challenges that come with the season can make or break many couples.

Social worker and general manager of The Banyans Healthcare Marian Cartwright told FEMAIL there was “a lot of stress” during the busy Christmas holiday period.

“This year, couples in particular may face a host of dilemmas – from financial strain due to cost of living pressure, family responsibilities, work pressures and increased family responsibilities. Because of this, couples often find it difficult to find time for each other,” she explained.

“New research from Sana Health Group shows one in five Australians admit to taking stress from work onto their family. So it’s not surprising that as the year comes to an end and stress increases, relationships may bear the brunt of it.”

December 11 was identified as the most common breakup day, in part after hundreds of Facebook status updates over the year were analyzed (stock image)

December 11 was identified as the most common breakup day, in part after hundreds of Facebook status updates over the course of a year were analyzed.

Someone wanting to end a relationship might want to do so two weeks before Christmas to avoid being “too cruel” and ruining December 25th for their soon-to-be ex.

“The timing of December 11th being the unofficial ‘break up day’ is also unique in that it is early December, not too far from New Year’s but not too close to Christmas itself to dampen the celebrations, and for many people it’s that balance that that can push them to change,” Marian said.

Marian added that Christmas is also a time when couples can reflect on the year, which can exacerbate unresolved issues.

“Even something as seemingly innocent as giving gifts can trigger couples and make them rethink who they are with,” she said.

Marian suggested several ways to avoid grief over the Christmas period, saying the solution could be “twofold”.

“Some stressors can certainly be avoided if a couple focuses on communicating clearly with each other and learning each other’s preferred communication style,” she said.

“Extremely busy periods can mean couples often forget to check in on each other and communicate, which if continually forgotten can turn into a more serious problem.”

Social workers advised people to remember to check in with their loved ones, asking how they are doing mentally and emotionally and what support they need.

“At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be seen, heard and cared for by their loved ones,” she said.

On the other hand, Marian said the reflection couples make as the end of the year approaches can lead them to realize that perhaps their relationship is no longer “serving them,” which is “perfectly natural.”

“People grow and change throughout the year, and what is needed for their individual mental well-being may become clearer during difficult times,” she said.

“So it’s important to check in with yourself and ask if you feel fulfilled and happy or if it’s time to start over and create a new chapter.