Alaska divorce filings have seen a significant increase in 2026, as many couples are struggling to navigate the ongoing stress and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic. According to data from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, there has been a 20% rise in divorce filings compared to the same time period last year.The COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on many relationships, as couples have been forced to spend more time together in isolation, deal with financial hardships, and juggle the demands of work and childcare. These added pressures have led to a breaking point for many marriages, resulting in a surge of divorce filings across the state.One divorce lawyer in Anchorage, who has seen a significant increase in clients seeking legal representation, attributes the rise in divorce rates to the sheer amount of stress and uncertainty that the pandemic has brought into people's lives. "The pandemic has magnified existing issues in marriages and strained relationships that were already on shaky ground," said the lawyer.Another factor contributing to the increase in divorce filings is the backlog of cases in the court system, which has made it difficult for divorcing couples to finalize their separation. The delays in the legal process have only added to the emotional and financial strain that couples are facing as they try to move on with their lives.Despite the challenges that many couples are facing, there is hope for those who are seeking support and guidance during this difficult time. Marriage counselors and therapists in Alaska have reported an uptick in clients seeking therapy to work through their issues and improve their relationships.As the pandemic continues to impact Alaskans in various ways, it is important for couples to prioritize their mental health and seek the help they need to navigate the challenges they are facing. Whether it is through therapy, counseling, or legal support, there are resources available to help couples weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side.