How to make divorce less stressful
The beginning of a new year is a popular time for couples to split. Perhaps you are contemplating ending your marriage, but are hesitant due to the overwhelming divorce process. Such fear and anxiety can prevent you from making the right choice for you and your family. The good news is there are many things you can do to reduce the stress of divorce and make it more manageable.
Choose the right approach
Most of the stress comes from the contention divorce involves. However, fighting is not an inevitable part of splitting up. You can choose to cooperate and be civil, and you can even stay out of the courtroom and forgo lawyers.
A better method of divorcing is through mediation, which entails creating the terms of your divorce agreement with the help of a neutral facilitator. This approach saves you time and money and improves the emotional well-being of all parties involved, including children, by promoting communication and civility.
Stay organized
Divorce comprises multiple steps, so breaking them down and prioritizing them can make the entire process seem more doable. This gives you the confidence to start. Once you begin marking off tasks, you are sure to be motivated to stay on track until the end.
Go to counseling
Having a support system is essential, but it is no replacement for professional help. Counseling is not just for saving your marriage, but also for helping you through the journey of ending it. A licensed therapist can give you a safe place to share difficult emotions and situations and receive sound feedback. You can learn how to manage anger, respond to challenges appropriately and let go of resentment.
Utilize self-care tools
Although you have much on your plate right now, take time to care for yourself. You need good sleep, regular exercise and positive social interaction to keep you healthy during this difficult time. Try new things to find what works for you, such as journaling, meditating or joining a support group.
Remember to practice self-compassion, too. Just because your marriage ended does not mean you are broken or a failure. Be kind to yourself.