The end of a marriage can be an upsetting and stressful time and whilst there is no magic cure to heal the pain of separation, there are some tools to use to ensure that you have a healthy divorce.
Our specialist Divorce Lawyers at Lamb Brooks advise and guide separating couples all across Hampshire, London and the South. They have put their heads together to share some tips to make the process healthier to ensure reduced stress levels, a good outcome and a chance at a better healing process.
#1 Remain in Control of Your Emotions
When going through difficult times, such as a divorce, it is important to take control of your own narrative. Emotions are a useful barometer for how you are coping, but they can get in the way of rational thinking and dealing with the importance discussions. Pay close attention to your emotions, pause for thought and act accordingly. There are some great mindfulness apps out there to help you keep calm and take stock. Seek help if you find yourself unable to cope.
#2 Exercise Regularly
If keeping fit wasn’t something you had done much of before, now is a great time to make it your new hobby. Physical exercise can give you something to focus on, provide time to reflect, help you get some fresh air and a better sleep. It can also generally make you feel better and lift your mood.
#3 Use Your Support Network
Build a team around you. Whether it be a group of friends, colleagues, family members, a counsellor or online support group – you do not need to go through divorce alone. Speaking to others can help, but even if you don’t feel like talking, just surrounding yourself with positive influences can help to distract you and make you feel supported.
#4 Take Time For Yourself
Divorce can be draining and one of the best ways to recoup is to indulge in some self-care. Prioritise some time, ideally at least once a week, to focus on doing something that makes you feel happy or relaxed. It could be a hobby that you enjoy, taking a long soak in the bath, going for a walk or reading a book.
#5 Eat Well
It is not uncommon for people to develop an unhealthy relationship with food when they are going though difficult emotions. Some people will comfort eat, perhaps unable to face cooking or finding themselves bored alone. Others will be overcome with anxiety and lose their appetite altogether. Ensure that you give your body a healthy balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and water. It will help you to keep on top of your mental health which will aid you navigating divorce.
#6 Avoid Alcohol
Whilst it could feel tempting to drown your sorrows in a bottle of wine, it very rarely helps in any situation. Instead, you wake up to face a difficult day with a headache and lack of quality sleep. Try to minimise your alcohol consumption whilst going through your divorce to help you think clearly.
#7 Be Kind to Yourself
There will understandably be good days and bad days as your progress through your separation. Even long after the divorce is finalised you may find things difficult. Imagine what you would say to a friend who was feeling this way and do not give yourself a hard time if you are struggling.
#8 Avoid Hostility
In some cases where the separation is mutual or you are both able to be reasonably civil with one another, it is possible to avoid the hostility of a court room and separate around a boardroom table (or virtual table). This method of divorcing is called the Collaborative Approach and is a good way to minimise stress and separate with dignity.
A Healthy Divorce
Whilst the process of divorce can be devastating, taking care of yourself can make the process less toxic, healthier and help you put your best foot forwards coming out of the divorce on the other side.
Getting Legal Support
Of course a great support during your divorce is to have a specialist divorce lawyer on your side, keeping you informed and ensuring your best interests are taken care of.
If you are looking for some initial divorce advice before going your separate ways, or if you are already going through the process and have reached a point where you could do with some professional representation, please get in touch.
Our Family Law Team can be contacted on 01256 844888 or via email at enquiries@lambbrooks.com.
Other Articles You May Be Interested in Reading:
Secrets for Coming to Terms With Divorce
How to Have a Good Divorce
A Quick Guide to Life After Divorce
The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice. The law may have changed since this article was published. Readers should not act on the basis of the information included and should take appropriate professional advice upon their own particular circumstances.