Your mental state and emotions are likely going to be all over the place when you go through a divorce. It is important for you to realize that this is normal so that you can find ways to move forward with your life.
The end of a marriage is a big change for you. The impacts that you are facing might consume your thoughts to the point that it is hard to think and continue on with a productive life. As time marches on, you will likely find that it is easier to deal with the situation, but you may need some help in the interim.
#1: Focus on self-care
It is easy to become so focused on the divorce that you forget to take care of yourself. Find ways to improve your mental and physical being. Go for walks so you can get in some activity and think about your plans for the future. If you do this, brining your phone with a note-recording app might help so you can take notes while you move. Try to eat a healthy diet, even if you have to cook only for one person. By taking care of yourself, you will likely feel less stress and be more centered.
#2: Find a support system
You may realize that some of the friends you had during your marriage start to drift away. This is normal, but it can still hurt. You need to find people whom you can count on to be there for you now. This could be family members whom you can get closer to since you are single or old friends for whom you have more time now. Sometimes, you will find new friends who share your interests.
#3: Limit contention and strife
While the divorce is going on and afterward, if you have children with your ex, you are going to have to deal with your ex-spouse. Limiting power struggles can help you to feel less stress. Remember that if things get heated, you have the right to walk away or hang up. You deserve to be respected, but make sure you also show respect to your ex.
#4: Embrace the roller coaster
You are going to feel a roller coaster of emotions during the divorce and long after. These might be the most intense during the first year. Embrace the emotions and figure out how to make them work for you. Maybe feeling sad is a sign that you need to take a self-care day to refocus on your new life. Anger can mean that you need try to find solutions to some issues. Boredom may mean that you should try to find a new hobby.
Throughout the process, ensure your rights are being upheld. You need to make decisions based on what’s best for you.