When you got married, you likely did not predict that you would eventually get a divorce. Ending your marriage can be challenging on many levels, despite the commonality of this experience.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that in 2019, 746,971 couples in the U.S. either got divorced or annulled their marriages. If you are one of the many going through this legal process, there are some strategies you can try to protect your mental health and wellbeing.
1. Take care of your physical health
Your physical health can have a significant impact on your emotional health. As you go through the divorce process, take care of yourself physically by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and limiting alcohol consumption.
2. Seek support
You may experience a wide range of emotions during your divorce and feel the need to talk through them with someone. Seek emotional support from your close friends and family members and if needed, a counselor or therapist. There may also be support groups in your local area for those going through a divorce.
3. Try something new
Although divorce is difficult, it also marks a new period of your life. Use this as an opportunity to try something new, like going back to school to change careers or even just changing your hair.
It may take time before life feels normal again after you finalize your divorce. Give yourself permission to step back from certain responsibilities for a while and set your expectations for your personal and professional life lower than you normally would.
