Because the holidays are such a joyous time, it seems nearly incomprehensible that January is the most popular time for couples to split up—so popular in fact, it has earned the designation of being called “divorce month.”

Many New Year’s resolutions entail self-improvement, including fitness, weight loss and sometimes getting out of a marriage. The stress of holidays and associated—perhaps long-simmering—family squabbles have been shown to boil over in the new year. Furthermore, financial pressures associated with holiday celebrations and various family obligations can also take their toll—particularly when one of the married partners doesn’t really understand the realities of how much it costs to provide the family with a spirited and memorable holiday season.