Coping with the change that comes after a divorce is never easy. Whether the decision to split was a mutual one, or one you never saw coming, you may feel as if your whole world is turned upside down. Divorce changes everything: your routine and responsibilities, your relationships with family and friends, and even your identity. The mix of emotions and fear of the unknown can be overwhelming at times. But it is important to remember that what you are experiencing is a transition, and a better, brighter future is on the horizon. In the meantime, there are many things you can do to get through this difficult time and come out feeling stronger and wiser than you ever thought possible.
Give Yourself Permission to Grieve
It is perfectly normal to feel sad or even depressed after a breakup, even if the marriage was not a happy one. You are coping with the loss of not only the relationship, but the shared dreams you had as a couple. It is not uncommon to feel a mix of conflicting emotions such as anger, resentment, relief, guilt, fear, and anxiety. Allow yourself to feel these emotions and remember that the end goal is moving on. Suppressing or ignoring your feelings will only serve to prolong your grief. If needed, seek the help of a professional therapist.
Build a Support System
Reach out to trusted friends and family members who value and support you. Some friends may pull away initially because they are not sure of what to do or what to say. They may be waiting for you to make the first move. Decide which people fill you with positive energy and add them to your inner circle. If needed, cultivate new friendships by joining a support or special interest group. Sometimes it is helpful to talk with people who have been through a difficult divorce or break-up, and can assure you that there is hope for healing.
Focus on a Goal
Your life has likely changed dramatically after your divorce. You may be living in a new home or be faced with returning to the workforce after spending years at home with the kids. Decide where you want to see yourself in the future and begin working towards that goal now. Perhaps that means enrolling in college or technical school, or creating a financial plan to buy that house you always wanted, but your former spouse would never have agreed to. Setting a realistic goal for yourself will help keep you looking forward at what could be, instead of backward at what was.
Take Care of Yourself
Learning to care for yourself can be the most rewarding lesson following a divorce. Take time to get to know the new you. Explore new interests that make you happy. Make a new effort to focus on your health by joining a fitness or sports club. Exercise can be a great mood lifter and you will look and feel better too.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles Offer Support and Guidance for Individuals Struggling to Cope with Divorce
Struggling with change and all of the emotions that come along with a divorce can make it difficult to think clearly and make good decisions. At Huesman, Jones & Miles, our Towson divorce lawyers understand this, and are here to guide you though your divorce with as little stress as possible, while setting you up for a brighter future. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our compassionate and qualified Towson divorce lawyers, call 443-589-0150 today or contact us online.
