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How to manage the stress of divorce while maintaining a healthy lifestyle
If you’re going through hell, keep going.
23:58 24 April 2023
Give preference to physical exercises and meditation
Exercise is one of the most effective ways how to deal with divorce stress. They help release endorphins, which reduce anxiety and help fight depression. And regular sports will help you sleep well at night and improve your emotional state during the day. Even if you don't have enough time or energy, try to add at least minimal physical activity to your daily routine - for example, a short walk around your neighborhood.
Another powerful tool for dealing with divorce stress is meditation. It allows us to clear the mind, focus on breathing and reduce the level of anxiety. You don't need special equipment or training to start meditating - there are tons of apps that offer guided meditations for beginners. Just 10-15 minutes a day can significantly change the way you feel about yourself and the situation.
Remember, choosing meditation and exercise for yourself will not only help you cope with the stress of divorce, but you will also maintain good health habits for life.
Also, have a look at this infographic:
Ask friends and family for support, or join a divorce support group
If you are uncomfortable discussing your feelings with loved ones, you may want to join a divorce support group. They are created so that people experiencing similar situations have the opportunity to share their experiences with others. You will meet those who understand exactly what you are going through and can advise you on how to cope with difficult situations.
Don't forget that there are professionals who know how to deal with the stress of divorce. It is the therapist or counselor who understands exactly how to deal with depression and anxiety, learn to manage anger and other emotions that usually arise during this transition period.
Remember, it's okay if you can't handle the stress on your own - professionals and family can help you overcome the stress of divorce!
Control all divorce documents and deadlines
The legal aspects of divorce are no less complicated. Also, to reduce stress, you should stay as organized as possible - track and control important documents and deadlines related to the divorce process. To do this, you should create a divorce checklist or a spreadsheet with all the necessary data. This will help you not miss any important step in your divorce and minimize unnecessary delays.
It is also important to stay in touch with your attorney, mediator, or any other professional who is working on your divorce. They will provide you with a list of required documents and deadlines for their submission and will be able to answer any questions you may have.
It is thanks to the constant control over the documents that you will be able to follow the whole situation and be ready to solve any unexpected problems that may arise during the divorce process.
Focus on healthy eating and avoid alcohol and sweets
Divorce can be emotionally draining, so you may be tempted to deal with the stress with alcohol and sweets. This way of dealing with stress is unhealthy and can lead to more problems in the future. Instead, focus on eating healthy by including fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet. Nutritious food will give you energy for the whole day and also help maintain a good mood.
It's important to remember that alcohol is not the best way to deal with divorce stress. It can bring temporary relief and reduce feelings of anxiety or sadness, but over time, alcohol only increases these emotions. Instead, try other stress-busting techniques, such as taking a relaxing bath or going for a walk outside.
Focusing on healthy eating and cutting out junk food and alcohol is an important part of staying well while dealing with the stress of divorce. Consciously choosing the right food and drinks, we will learn about dealing with divorce emotions and improve our moral and physical condition in this difficult period of life.
Therapy or counseling can help you cope with challenging emotions
It's normal to feel anxious and depressed during a divorce because it's quite a difficult stage in your life. Therefore, it is worth contacting a psychotherapist or consultant - this is a great way to overcome complex emotions that may arise during this period. A licensed therapist can help you develop stress management strategies tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.
Therapy can also provide you with a safe space where you can express your feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. It can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall emotional state. With the support of a qualified therapist, you will be able to try new methods of stress management and increase your stress resistance in the face of adverse circumstances.
Remember that turning to a psychotherapist or counselor is not a sign of weakness, but an opportunity to take control of your mental health during this transitional period in life. By investing in therapy to overcome stress, you will become stronger and ready for any challenges in life!
Take breaks from social media and other negative sources of stress and anxiety
People often look to social networks for support during times of stress, but they can also be a source of negativity that provokes anxiety and depression. Therefore, it is important to take breaks from using social networks and -, spend less time on certain websites that cause distress.
Instead, try to do something that brings you joy and peace of mind. It can be walks in the fresh air, reading books, listening to music, or a new hobby, for example, drawing or cooking. New hobbies will not only help you cope with stress but also improve your general condition and well-being.
Remember that everyone copes with divorce differently, so there is no one right way. However, limited use of social networks and other sources of negativity that cause stress and anxiety. This is what will help you avoid additional stress on your nervous system during this difficult period in your life.
Create a plan to control your finances during and after the divorce
One of the most stressful aspects of divorce is the financial part. To reduce stress, you should create a budget plan to properly manage your finances during and after the divorce process. To start, make a list of all your expenses, including bills, rent/mortgage, food expenses, etc. Then determine how much income you will receive each month and allocate funds accordingly.
It's also important to consider any potential changes in your income and expenses after the divorce. For example, if your husband's income used to cover part of the expenses, now you need to adjust your budget without taking this money into an account. If such planning seems difficult to you, then to facilitate the process, use special applications on the Internet. You may also want to consider working with a financial advisor who specializes in helping people deal with financial issues related to divorce.
Creating a budget plan to manage your finances during and after your divorce will help minimize the impact of stress on you and give you confidence in your success.
Maintain communication with your ex if necessary
This is very important, especially when it comes to a difficult divorce. For example, if you are filing for divorce in New York, there are printable divorce forms in NY available that can help streamline the process. But it's important to set clear boundaries with your ex if it's necessary for your emotional well-being.
Set aside some time to discuss the legal issues surrounding divorce, but it should not spill over into other areas of your life. Avoid arguments and discussions that can cause negative emotions and additional stress.
If it is difficult for you to achieve such communication with your ex, then it is better to seek help from a mediator who can facilitate a productive conversation between you.
But, if you practice meditation and sports, find support in the family or special groups for communication, can organize control over documents and finances, and learn to communicate properly with your ex-partner - you will be able to more easily survive this difficult period in your life.
Give yourself time to grieve
Giving yourself time to grieve is an important part of coping with divorce. It's important to acknowledge and live with your emotions, including sadness, anger, frustration, and fear. Do not try to suppress or ignore these feelings, as they may surface later. Allow yourself to feel them and express them properly, for example in a journal or a conversation with a friend or therapist, you trust.
Although grief is necessary for your healing after a divorce, it is important not to dwell on the past. The end of your marriage marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, which may be full of new opportunities for personal growth. Take this chance to rediscover who you are outside of the relationship. Try something new - an interesting hobby or volunteering in your community.
Remember that coping with the stress of a divorce is an ongoing process that requires a lot of time and effort. However, if you can focus on moving forward and leaving the past behind, it will be easier for you to walk this path.