Mental Health Tips For Divorcing Couples
A couple divorces every 26 seconds in the United States. It’s a cold hard fact that the chances are often against couples lasting for the long run. While some divorces are indeed contentious, other couples manage to weather the process without rancor. Staying healthy during the process is important when it comes to surviving a divorce, and this includes mental health. Read on for tips on how to improve your mental health as you navigate divorce counsel.
1. Accept That You’ll Have Complex Feelings
One day you might feel totally free, and the next, you may feel lost. All of this is normal and part of the process. Cut yourself some slack, and understand that you’re dealing with a complex situation that’ll give rise to a variety of emotions, all of which are okay to feel.
2. Go Easy On Yourself
There are tons of things that need to be taken care of during a divorce, including financial and housing arrangements. Dealing with these issues often creates stress, which can lead us to act in less than ideal ways. Increased stress often results in symptoms like forgetfulness and irritability. Accept your shortcomings and attempt to come up with creative ways to ensure that important things get taken care of.
3. Lean On Your Community
Having the support of friends and family members during difficult periods is essential to not just surviving but thriving after your divorce is finalized. Make time to chat with friends and have lunch with family members. Zoom calls are great ways to connect with siblings and friends who live in different parts of the country. Consider joining a local club or even taking lessons at a local community college to meet new people.
4. Take Care Of Your Physical Health
Stress impacts your body; after extended periods of high stress, individuals often experience difficulty sleeping, have appetite changes, and more. Getting out into nature provides two benefits: fresh air and a bit of exercise. Many studies have shown the benefits of exercise when it comes to improving mental health. Make sure to eat regular healthy meals to provide immune support, too.
5. Know When to Call an Expert
When addressing a contested issue on your own becomes too overwhelming, don’t let the negative emotions build up — take proactive action. Reach out to your therapist for help addressing how you feel and ask your divorce counsel to assist you when it comes to navigating the legal issues involved.
Divorce can take a toll on your mental health. If you’re going through a divorce, lean on professionals and individuals you can trust along the way, including siblings, friends, a mental health therapist, and your divorce counsel. For divorce mediation Chicago trusts, look to C.E.L. & Associates Inc. today.