Divorce stress is real and complicated. It can go beyond the typical daily stress we all feel in some cases, so it can require deliberate coping mechanisms.
No one gets married anticipating divorce. Dissolving what you once assumed was a “for life” bond can be painful. But there can be a stress-free life on the other side, and coping with the stress of divorce can help you get there sooner.
Even under the best circumstances, certain aspects of your divorce process are probably going to be difficult. At the end of the day, you’re dealing with a loss, and getting through that grief and depression can be a tough thing. With the right tools, information, and resources, you can learn how to deal with divorce in the healthiest way possible. Often people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol or drugs as a way to get by. If this is the case and you find it getting too much, it’s a good idea to look into alcohol rehab.
Whether you’re deep in the grieving process or handling divorce stress in the early stages, we’re here for you.
Here are some of our best tips to help you manage your wellbeing during and after the divorce process.
1. Acknowledge your feelings
When it comes to divorce, the old adage “it’s okay to not be okay” is particularly appropriate. Recognising and examining your feelings can help you learn how to manage them. It’s natural to go through a mourning period when a marriage breaks up, as is feeling sad, angry, disappointed, or scared. Ignoring your feelings won’t go away.
2. Don’t be hard on yourself
It can be easy to feel as though you are to blame, which makes it easier for negative thoughts to become overwhelming. However, remember that divorce is complicated and it is never just one partner’s fault.
Give yourself the time and space you need, so that you can begin the next phase of your life. Engage in positive self-talk, as it can encourage you to find a new perspective and ultimately improve your mental and emotional state.
3. Try not to live in the past
When the present has become uncomfortable, our minds often want to escape to the past, but this can also create patterns of negative thoughts and encourage feelings of regret. Looking back usually invokes hurtful memories, just keep looking forward to a positive future.
4. Let people help
The people in your life who care about you will want to help — consider letting them. Leaning on those you trust can be helpful for easing stress, and although it might be challenging to make an effort to spend time with others, you will be better off in the long run.
You should also consider connecting with others going through the same thing. Try to find a support group: support groups are great for finding others with shared experiences who can understand you.
5. Look after your physical health
Maintaining a nourishing diet in the midst of divorce can be difficult, as some people lose their appetite, eat to cope, or eat processed, convenient foods. However, healthy eating can help boost your immune system, raise your energy levels, and cope with stress. Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol as much as possible can also be helpful.
Getting much needed exercise is also one of the best anti-stress tools. Moving your body releases endorphins which can release pent-up negative energy and allow you to focus and feel better.
6. Balance your sleep
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep and keep a regular schedule which can help you ease your stress. However, if you are experiencing depression or anxiety, you may be getting either too much sleep or too little. If this is the case, speak to our GP or seek out mental health counselling, which leads us to our next point.
7. Consider seeking divorce counselling
Even if you feel like you are handling your divorce well, there may be times when you feel a host of negative emotions which are detrimental to your own mental health and wellbeing. If this is the case, consider getting some outside help.
Going to divorce counselling can allow you to navigate your way through your thoughts and feelings about the divorce, help you gain a new perspective, and recognise and break unhealthy thought patterns.
Divorce counselling can also be beneficial for children who are affected by the process in order to help them cope too.
Healthy Mind Coaching can provide you with the services you need to improve your mental and emotional wellbeing, particularly during times of stress or difficulty like divorce. Healthy Mind Coaching offers one-to-one sessions designed to help you overcome negative thoughts and feelings, empowering you for the future by enabling you to live a more positive life.
Healthy Mind Coaching offers a free 20 minute consultation for you to see how they can work with you to improve your wellbeing.
Learn more about Healthy Mind Coaching and Training by calling Sam today on 07906 869616