Going through a divorce can be painful and difficult, even when you know it’s the right thing to do. The process itself can be unpredictable and stressful, and you may not always know how to manage your emotions. Fortunately, there are some divorce coping strategies that may help.
Be Aware of Your Self-Talk
During a divorce, it can be easy to develop a habit of saying negative things to yourself. However, criticizing yourself during the process will not be useful or productive. If anything, it can make matters worse. So, instead of being hard on yourself, do your best to be mindful of your internal dialogue and recognize when you are being self-critical. Then, when you realize that this is occurring, take a moment and try and reframe your thoughts. It may help to work with a therapist as you develop ways to apply this new practice.
Take Care of Yourself
Stress is hard on a person’s mind, body, and overall well-being. You may not have a choice about being in the situation but can control how you treat yourself. Do what you can to get rest and eat healthily. Take time to engage in activities that are relaxing for you. Spend time with people who you feel are supportive. Taking care of yourself throughout the process is an important coping strategy.
Remember, You Don’t Have to do This Alone
Sometimes, people going through divorce feel like they must shoulder everything alone. This may be because they are private or don’t want to burden others. Whatever the reason, it’s crucial to recognize that you don’t have to do this alone. Reaching out to your support system or a trained therapist may help you process your emotions. Further, talking with people you trust can help you maintain perspective.
Be Patient with Yourself
When you are involved in a divorce, it can feel like it will never end. When the case is finally over, you may still emotionally react to your experience for a while. There is no set formula for “getting over it” when it comes to divorce. Everyone is different in how they process their experience. The important thing to remember is to be patient with yourself. You have experienced a loss that will take time to grieve. It may take a long time for you to feel like you have moved through and past the pain of your divorce.
Keep Your Kids Out of the Conflict
For parents, making choices regarding kids during divorce can be challenging. One important way to cope with your divorce is by keeping your children out of your disputes with your ex. Taking steps to establish and maintain boundaries regarding your children before, during, and after the divorce can minimize conflict and help you and your kids maintain emotional balance.
Let Go of What is Gone
By its very nature, divorce often involves rehashing past events that took place during your marriage. When you spend that much time evaluating your marriage and its history, it can be easy to focus on past perceived transgressions. However, it’s important to recognize that hanging onto past resentments is impeding your ability to move on with your case and your life. Acknowledging that some matters can’t be changed may help you move towards letting go of what is gone.
Developing positive coping strategies during and after divorce can be challenging. However, when you choose to work with an experienced Wisconsin divorce attorney, they can help you determine the best ways to manage your case.
Contact an Experienced Wisconsin Divorce Attorney
Wisconsin Attorney and Mediator Karyn Youso of First Look Family Law is an attorney and Mediator with the experience you need to help you both during and after your Wisconsin divorce. She understands the complexities of navigating divorce and child custody. If you have a case in Metro Milwaukee, Waukesha, or Brookfield, please contact us today and let us take a “first look” at your situation.
