The phrase “for better for worse” in marriage vows has a heavy meaning in normal discourses. If any of the partners break the promise or both agree to divorce, it is a heart-wrenching feeling. Some go as far as being hospitalised for physical or mental complications. Couples undergoing such tough times need special attention to help them go through the phase. Handling such eventualities need soberness and a lot of understanding. As discussed below, it begins from your body, mind, and eventually, your life. Below are five ways of handling your mental health during and after Divorce.
Focus on Yourself
In marriage, although the couple has individual lives, they owe their allegiance to each other. Decisions made reflect their collective will and aspirations. It obligates each partner to be mindful of the other before doing anything. After divorce, you have the leeway to focus on what makes you happy. The anxiety of independence might get into you, ending in a disaster. The following are areas to focus on with your new-found freedom:-
- Physical health – divorce is a nerve aching experience. You can have a hormonal imbalance, adrenaline rush, and impaired judgment. Focus on bodily exercises and proper diet.
- Enough rest – ensure you sleep well to calm down your nerves.
- Psychological evaluation – let the whole experience sink in before making the decision. Decisions made from emotions postpones the depression rather than settling the matter.
Agree on Shared Responsibility during the Divorce Process
If the marriage had shared assets or children, it is imperative to agree on responsibility during the process formally. If the separation is not handled soberly, any future engagement between the two parties will not end well. If need be, agree on a mutual formula of protecting assets de facto relationship maintained.
The primary responsibility is co-parenting. Your children should not feel any void as a result of the divorce. The agreement should be agreed upon and signed during the process, not after. Family court solicitors can help in drafting the agreement and help in keeping the covenant.
If Need Be, Consider Therapy
If you are not strong enough, consider calling in a therapist. They help you address self-preservation and esteem. Therapists are trained to help you straighten your thinking and invoke self-confidence. A good therapist should not tell you what to do but show you the right path based on your strength. The decision to move on and face the world should come from within.
To protect your mental health after divorce, you must find inner calmness. If you are at peace with yourself, no one can challenge your marital decisions moving forward.
Do not Jump into another Relationship Immediately
As a sense of self-affirmation, divorcing couples jump straight into other relationships. At first, it might look like “celebration from bondage,” but in the long run, you might realise that the grass is not greener on the other side. Sit out and evaluate your priorities. Divorce gives you a second chance to understand who you are and what you want. Rushing into another relationship is detrimental to such progress.
Do not Blame Anyone for the divorce
The road to successful healing after divorce is in making peace with your partner and the whole exercise. Blame is a sign of weakness and bitterness, and if not correctly handled, can lead to a constant backlash. If it is either of you who caused the divorce, ask for forgiveness. The offended party might not entirely forget, but will rest easy in knowing you respect him or her. It also crafts a smooth association moving forward.
About the Author
Monica is a passionate writer and content creator. Her interests include outdoor activities, fitness, technology, entrepreneurship and everything in between. Say hi to Monica on Twitter @monical_lee.
