Self-Care During Divorce: 101

  When you walk down the aisle with your soon-to-be husband or wife, you are obviously not, for one minute, considering how you would handle...

 

When you walk down the aisle with your soon-to-be husband or wife, you are obviously not, for one minute, considering how you would handle being apart from them for any length of time, much less splitting up permanently and moving in different directions.

However, if you are preparing to file for divorce or the wheels have already been set in motion, taking care of not just your physical health, but also your emotional wellbeing too, are of utmost priority.

With that being said, here is an article dedicated to helping you look after yourself during your divorce.

 

Don’t Split Hairs When Dividing Your Possessions

First and foremost, often with more acrimonious divorce proceedings, you will find the husband and wife are at loggerheads when dividing their belongings, especially if they have been together for a long time and have a wealth of possessions most of which were bought together.

Now, to avoid additional levels of stress, worry, and anxiety, aside from sentimental items belonging to your family that should, of course, stay with you, when looking at furniture, white goods, and other more functional items, ask yourself whether you actually need or want them.

What is more, save yourself both time and money when transferring any heavier goods from your old house to your new abode with Shiply, who will arrange a convenient delivery to fit around you.

 

Stay Away from Negative Behavior

Unequivocally, going through a divorce, whether the split was entirely your choice or else was a complete blindside, can be a hugely emotionally overwhelming time, and as such, it can be easy to go down the line of combative and negative behavioral patterns with your ex-partner.

However, not only will this draw out the process longer than it needs to be, but it will only serve to raise your own levels of stress and anxiety, which is both mentally taxing and can also have adverse effects on your physical health too.

While divorce can be incredibly challenging, it's important to maintain a sense of optimism and hope for the future. Focus on the opportunities for growth and renewal that lie ahead. Cultivate a positive mindset, and remind yourself that you have the strength and resilience to overcome this chapter in your life.

 

Consider Counselling

It may well be the case that, while you and your ex were trying to make things work, you had booked and attended several marriage therapy sessions and have a slightly cynical view of the effectiveness of counseling.

However and especially if you are currently experiencing regular and prolonged periods of low mood, a support system in the form of an impartial ear to listen to your hurt, your sense of injustice, and general loss as to what to ‘do next’ can be of enormous benefit and is definitely worth considering.

 

Talk Things Through with Friends & Family

Finally, anyone going through a divorce will be fully aware of the pain felt from both sides, in particular when there are children caught in the middle, and many, many divorcees find themselves feeling as if they are entirely alone. Lean on your support network of friends, family, and loved ones for emotional support and companionship. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you, and who can offer practical assistance if needed. Building strong social connections can help mitigate feelings of isolation and loneliness during divorce.

This is why sharing the burden of how you are feeling with trusted members of your family and/or close friends is so important, as they not only love you and want the best for you, but they can also provide you with a beneficial and objective point of view.