Divorce is often one of the most difficult experiences that a person can go through. In many cases, it requires you to leave your family home, lose contact with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. And it almost always involves losing someone that you once loved, as well as the future you had imagined having together.

Despite how hard divorce can be, there are steps you can take to protect your mental and emotional health during this stage of your life. You may want to try:

• Spending time with family and friends
• Playing a new sport
• Trying a new hobby
• Volunteering in your community
• Journaling
• Meditating
• Exercising
• Spending time outdoors
• Treating yourself to a massage
• Attending support group meetings

Divorce often causes people to feel anxious and depressed, so if you’re having a hard time coping, remind yourself that you’re not alone in feeling that way and that things will eventually get better. Give yourself a break while you recover from your divorce and adjust to your new way of life.

Consider Speaking to a Therapist

While leaning on your family and friends can often be very helpful following a divorce, sometimes it’s necessary to seek help from a professional. You’ll be glad to know that the therapists at our practice have extensive experience counseling patients going through the divorce process. We’ll draw on that background to provide you with the compassionate ear and personalized advice you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

If you’ve gone through a divorce, you’re not alone. According to statistics published by Forbes, about half of first marriages end in divorce, and divorce rates are even higher in second and third marriages.

It’s important to not rush back into dating after a divorce. Separating from your spouse can be extremely difficult, and you’ll need to take time to process your emotions, rediscover yourself, and think about what you want in your next relationship. Once you’re ready to enter the dating world again, remember the following tips:

• Try dating apps. If it’s been a while since you got married, you may not have any experience using dating apps and websites, and you might be hesitant to embrace this new technology. But don’t discount it—these services could make it easier for you to meet someone new. Or, consider joining a class or attending a community event.
• Be honest. While you don’t need to divulge every detail of what led to your divorce, don’t purposefully keep things from a potential partner. Let them know that you’re divorced and what you’re looking for in a new relationship. Trust is an essential component of any relationship, and you don’t want to build your next one based on lies.
• Wait to introduce your children. If you and your ex-spouse share children, you may be excited to have them meet your new partner, but it’s important to not rush these introductions. Wait until you’ve gotten to know your new partner well and you’re sure that you want to be with them long-term.

Need to Talk to Someone?

Moving on after a divorce can be very difficult, and many people in this position find it beneficial to speak with a therapist. The experienced providers at our practice can help you navigate through any issues you’re currently experiencing and move into the next chapter of your life. Contact us today to request an appointment—we’ll be happy to schedule a session at a date and time that’s convenient for you.