The emotional stress that comes along with a divorce can make maintaining a healthy lifestyle incredibly difficult. Even tasks as simple as getting out of bed each morning can feel daunting. When you think about it, humans require a lot of upkeep. We are told to sleep eight hours a night, eat at least three nutritious meals a day, and drink 8 glasses of water as well as exercise daily. But we also must grocery shop, clean, do laundry, go to work, and groom ourselves. Additionally, if you have children, you have to make sure their basic daily needs are met as well as get them to and from school, activities and other appointments.Daily tasks can be overwhelming for many adults, divorce or not. The busyness of life makes prioritizing self-care during a season of immense change even more critical. Here are 6 ways to cope with the added stress that comes with divorce:
1. Connect With Your Spirit
This looks different for everyone. Whether you decide to attend church services, meditate, journal, pray, etc., it is important to channel your spirituality. This form of mental self-care will help you to think clearer and process your emotions.
2. Surround Yourself with Supportive People
You may decide to hangout with your oldest group of friends to distract yourself. Or maybe join a support group and build meaningful relationships with people who have been through similar situations. Either way, these positive social interactions can help you start to heal.
3. Be Kind to Yourself
Divorce can take a toll on your mental health, so it is important to show yourself some compassion. There are likely many emotions swirling around in your mind. Allow yourself the space and time necessary to grieve the relationship and make peace with your situation.
4. Try Something New
This is the perfect time to let go of your old self and make way for a fresh start. Step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself to find a new hobby or travel somewhere you’ve never been before—or even learn a new skill! You may discover things about yourself that will surprise you.
5. Seek Professional Guidance
There is nothing wrong with asking for help. Therapists and support groups can provide you with a safe way to process heavy emotions. The right therapist will validate your feelings, give you tools and exercises to manage them better—and make sure you know it’s not a weakness but a sign of strength!
6. Set Goals for Yourself
Everyone copes with divorce in their own way, but continuing to move forward is important. Setting small daily and weekly goals can help keep you on track even during tough times. It could be something as simple as going for one walk outside a day, fresh air and sunshine will do wonders.
Self-care is often overlooked during the divorce, but it is crucial to the healing process.. It is okay to be vulnerable and give yourself a break —you are human. Don’t let your past predict your future. Whether you decide to join a support group, reconnect with your church, or spend time with loved ones, you can be well on your way to reinventing a new you after the storm.
Sterk Family Law is Here to Assist You
With all the changes happening in our world, we hope that you find some comfort in knowing that we will be here to assist you throughout the entire divorce process. If you are a victim of domestic violence, we can assist you with obtaining an Order of Protection.
Whether you are a current client or if you are looking for family law or estate planning assistance, our team is here for you and will continue to be available to address your concerns.
To the extent possible, we will offer remote consultations and provide services from a distance.
You may message us here, email our office at info@sterkfamilylaw.com, or call 815-600-8950 and one of our team members will be able to assist you.
This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.