Parting ways with your partner may be one of the most stressful moments of your life. As a matter of fact, depressive episodes are common in around 50% of couples post-divorce. (1)
It is common to feel overwhelmed as you face difficult emotions. That’s why it’s a great idea to be equipped with healthy and practical habits to help you cope with divorce stress.
This guide will share some of these coping strategies with you. Read on.
Allow yourself to grieve
You might be feeling sad about the loss of your relationship, angry at your ex-partner, or even confused about what the future holds. Pushing these emotions down won’t make them go away.
Instead:
- Acknowledge your feelings: Don’t judge yourself for feeling sad, angry, or lost.
- Find healthy outlets: Talking to a therapist, journaling, or engaging in creative activities like painting or playing music can be helpful ways to express your emotions.
Remember, grieving takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to heal at your own pace.
Seek divorce support
Studies show that divorce is one of the major factors leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. But you don’t have to go through it alone: (2)
- Talk to friends and family members: Lean on people who care about you and listen without judgment.
- Consider therapy: A mental health professional can provide a safe space to talk about your negative feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Join a divorce support group: Connecting with others who have been through the healing process can help. They can offer emotional support and share tips on moving on after divorce that’ll significantly improve your situation.
- Involve your legal team: Seek professional help from experts well versed in navigating divorce and family law matters as well. These pros will not only guide you through the divorce process. They’ll also help you make sense of matters such as custody arrangements and your financial situation post divorce.
Take care of yourself
Divorce can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Here are some practical ways to take care of yourself during this difficult time:
- Prioritize healthy eating: Make sure you’re eating nutritious meals and snacks to give your body the energy it needs to cope with stress.
- Get enough sleep: Try to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. When you are well-rested, you can be better equipped to handle the day-to-day challenges that post-divorce life throws your way.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost your overall well-being. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it’s going for a walk, taking a yoga class, or hitting the gym.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help you manage stress and anxiety.
Taking care of yourself physically and mentally can help you go through the challenges of divorce and emerge stronger on the other side.
Focus on the kids (if applicable)
Research shows that one out of two adolescents with divorced parents or those who’ve separated exhibit some type of mental disorder. That’s why you need to be there for them during this difficult time. Here are some ways you can help your children cope: (3)
- Reassure them: Let them know that you and your ex-partner both love them very much, even though you won’t be living together anymore.
- Maintain routines: As much as possible, try to stick to your children’s existing routines and schedules. This will help them feel a sense of normalcy during a time of change.
- Minimize conflict: Avoid arguing with your ex-partner in front of your children. If you can’t agree on something, try to work it out in private.
- Create a co-parenting plan: Work with your ex to create a co-parenting plan that outlines how you will share parenting responsibilities, such as custody arrangements and communication protocols.
By prioritizing your children’s needs and working together with you and your ex, you can help your kids adjust to the changes brought on by divorce.
Start making plans for the future
Divorce can feel like an ending, but it’s also a chance to start fresh. Here are some ways to start planning for the future:
- Think about your living arrangements: Do you want to stay in your current home, or do you need to find a new place to live? Consider your budget and lifestyle needs.
- Finances: Review your finances and create a budget. This will help you understand your income and expenses and make informed financial decisions moving forward.
- Career goals: Is there a career change you’ve been wanting to make? Now might be the perfect time to explore new opportunities.
- Personal goals: What are your hopes and dreams for the future? Take some time to reflect on your personal goals and start making plans to achieve them.
By taking charge of your future, you can create a life that is fulfilling and rewarding.
In closing
A divorce process may leave you a little shaken and hurt, but with these tips in hand, you can find it easier to make peace with your new situation. If you feel a little bit overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact your support crew; their help can go a long way during these difficult times.
Sources
1. “Mental Illness And Divorce Statistics [Fresh Research]”, Source: https://gitnux.org/mental-illness-and-divorce-statistics/
2. “More Baby Boomers are living alone. One reason why: ‘gray divorce'”, Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/08/05/health/boomers-divorce-living-alone-wellness-cec/index.html
3. “Association between parental divorce and mental health outcomes among Lebanese adolescents: results of a national study”, Source: https://bmcpediatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12887-021-02926-3
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