Earlier this week, we reported that singer Kelly Clarkson had shocked her fans by filing for divorce from her husband of nearly seven years, Brandon Blackstock. Now, a source has come forward to say that Clarkson decided to divorce Blackstock while in quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic, as their time in isolation made things worse

The source told Entertainment Tonight that while friends of the couple were surprised when news of their divorce filing broke, “those closest to them know it’s been difficult.”

“Kelly and Brandon had been having problems for several months and were making a conscious effort to work things out. They both hoped quarantining away from L.A. in Montana would help them work things out in their marriage, but instead the change in environment was actually detrimental,” the source said.

“The constant time together seemed to make an already challenging situation worse,” the insider continued, adding that Clarkson’s career “definitely helped to keep her mind off things, but this recent downtime gave her the time she needed to think about her life and her marriage.”

The source went on to say that Clarkson started the divorce process that “they’d both been dreading” a few weeks ago, after “Kelly knew she just needed to follow her heart and finally realized divorce was her only option.”

Clarkson and Blackstock have two children together, a 5-year-old daughter River and 4-year-old son Remington. He also has an older daughter and son from his previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth.

“Kelly and Brandon haven’t cut each other off; they are still talking to one another. They are both heartbroken, but their plan is to put the kids first,” the source added. “Their focus is on co-parenting and moving forward, as this is the last place they ever thought they would be. They both understand divorce is never easy for children, but Kelly and Brandon are great parents. It’ll just take time.”

The source concluded by saying that Clarkson “has always been a very organized businesswoman, so her decision to have a prenup just reflects that and protects her earnings. Kelly is very kindhearted, generous and giving, so Brandon will be just fine.”