Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged process that can take a toll on your mental well-being. Emotionally preparing for divorce is just as important as preparing for the legal aspects.
Consider these 3 tips to help you navigate the process.
1. Validate your emotions
Many people believe that they should stay stoic as they approach a divorce, but this can lead to unexpressed emotions that result in outbursts and conflict. Take time to acknowledge and validate your emotions both about your relationship and your divorce.
You might feel anger, sadness, fear or even relief. All of those emotions have a valid place in the process, so let yourself feel them. Consider journaling your feelings or talking with a trusted friend to express them.
2. Focus on self-care
Self-care is an important part of navigating your divorce. Establish a routine to address your personal needs, including regular exercise, quality sleep and a healthy diet. Take time for meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness practices as well. Prioritizing self-care helps you establish the resilience you need for the road ahead.
3. Create a vision for your future
It is easy to focus on the loss associated with the divorce and the chapter that ends with it but, you should also remember that your divorce marks the start of a new phase in your life. Consider what you want that phase to look like, including your goals, aspirations and new dreams. Set some short-term and long-term goals for yourself so that you can start to move forward with a sense of direction.
Research shows that people experiencing major life events, such as divorce, are as much as 9.4 times more likely to develop depression. Emotional preparation before your divorce can help you navigate the journey with a mindful and balanced perspective, reducing your risk of depression and other emotional challenges.