How To Practice Self-Care When Going Through a Divorce
You're not alone if you're navigating the difficult terrain of divorce. The feelings of loss, anger, relief, anxiety, and confusion are common, even if each divorce is different. At Healing Voices Psychotherapy, many people going through this life-changing experience have sought help. In this blog, we will outline doable strategies for remaining grounded and healthy throughout this time.
Give Your Emotions a Presence
During such a time, whatever feelings you feel are valid and divorce can set off a chain reaction of feelings. You may feel strong and optimistic on some days and overwhelmed or lost on others. It's alright! Acknowledgement is the first step towards emotional well-being. Avoid the temptation to repress or condemn your emotions. You can process what you're going through by journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or even talking to yourself out loud.
In therapy, we frequently recommend mindfulness exercises. You can identify and let go of your emotions by spending even five minutes a day sitting quietly with them. Take this opportunity to rediscover who you are. What interests, pursuits, or aspirations have you reserved? What additional abilities could you pick up? Painting, gardening, or volunteering are examples of creative or meaningful activities that can be incredibly therapeutic.
Surround Yourself with a Support Network
It's important to surround yourself with supportive and understanding people when life seems to be falling apart. Rely on a support group, family, or friends. However, not every friend or relative will provide the assistance you require. Some people may inadvertently cause you more stress by giving you unwanted advice or making judgements. That’s where we come in! Our therapists, like Alysha Plaggemeier, bring years’ worth of experience in the field having helped numerous clients going through something like you! She uses a wide array of therapeutic methods to help you help yourself.
Prioritize Self-Care
Divorce frequently decreases one's physical, mental, and emotional strength, leaving little time for self-care. Start small:
Sleep: Anxiety brought on by a divorce can seriously disrupt your sleep. Establish a calming nighttime routine by turning out the lights, reading a good book, and avoiding electronics for at least an hour before bed.
Nutrition: Eating or not eating under stress is typical. Maintain wholesome but basic meals. Lean meats, fresh produce, and whole grains provide your body with energy and balance your mood.
Exercise: Getting your body moving releases feel-good endorphins and aids in stress processing. Choose an activity that gives you a sense of vitality, such as yoga, Zumba, or a vigorous walk.
Establish Boundaries
Legal meetings, custody disputes, and occasionally tense encounters with your former partner are just a few of the expectations that come with divorce. It's crucial to establish boundaries. Learn to say no to commitments that drain your energy or needless turmoil and learn to save time for recovery and development. If you have to co-parent, consider using resources like co-parenting apps to reduce stress and avoid misunderstandings.
Seek Help
Divorce is an emotional journey as much as a legal one. During this period, therapy can be transformative. Beyond simply lending a sympathetic ear, a skilled therapist can help you reevaluate who you are, deal with sorrow, and regain confidence.
Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, is especially beneficial for many of our clients. CBT assists you in recognizing harmful thinking patterns, such as self-blame or future anxiety, and substituting them with positive, empowering ideas. Virtual therapy like ours makes treatment accessible and easy if in-person therapy seems too intimidating.
You’re stronger than you think.
Divorce is undoubtedly difficult, but it's also a chance for personal development. We have seen the amazing fortitude of people at our clinic who have overcome these obstacles and come out of them stronger, smarter, and more self-compassionate.
If you need us, we are available to listen, offer guidance, and reassure you that you are not alone. Take each day as it comes, and don't be afraid to ask for the help you need by reaching out.
