Simple Tips for Coping with Separation and Divorce.

I always tell my clients that divorce is a process not an event and that it is OK to feel that you are wading through treacle some days and feeling more empowered and hopeful in others.

It often feels like you take three steps forward and then one step back as getting used to the change of lifestyle is challenging as you experience loss, grief, anger, loneliness and eventually acceptance.

It’s never easy when a marriage or significant relationship ends. Whatever the reason for the split—and whether you wanted it or not—the breakup of a relationship can turn your whole world upside down and trigger all sorts of painful and unsettling feelings. But there are plenty of things you can do to get through this difficult time and move on. You can even learn from the experience and grow into a stronger, wiser person.

A divorce, or breakup is painful because it represents the loss, not just of the relationship,  but also of shared dreams and commitments. Romantic relationships begin on a high note of excitement and hope for the future. When these relationships fail, we experience profound disappointment, stress, and grief.

A breakup or divorce launches us into uncharted territory. Everything is disrupted: your routine and responsibilities, your home, your relationships with extended family and friends, and even your identity. A breakup brings uncertainty about the future. What will life be like without your partner? Will you find someone else? Will you end up alone? These unknowns often seem worse than an unhappy relationship.

Recovering from a breakup or divorce is difficult. However, it’s important to know (and to keep reminding yourself) that you can and will move  on. But healing takes time, so be patient with yourself.

Here are some helpful suggestions for coping with separation and divorce.

Recognise that it’s OK to have different feelings. It’s normal to feel sad, angry, exhausted, frustrated, and confused—and these feelings can be intense. You also may feel anxious about the future. Accept that reactions like these will lessen over time. Even if the marriage was unhealthy, venturing into the unknown is frightening.

Give yourself a break. Give yourself permission to feel and  to function at a less than optimal level for a period of time. You may not be able  to be quite as productive at your job or care for others in exactly the way you’re  accustomed to for a little while. No one is superman or superwoman; take time to  heal, regroup, and re-energize.

Don’t go through this alone. Sharing your feelings with  friends and family can help you get through this period. Consider joining a support group where you can talk to others in similar situations. Isolating yourself can raise your stress levels, reduce your concentration, and get in the way of your work, relationships, and overall health. Don’t be afraid to get outside help if you need it.

If you would like to work with me creating your own personal and  unique One Page Profile that is my very simple but empowering process towards supporting you through this major change just call me on 01883 818329 or email me at [email protected] or please feel free to pass on my details to people you know who would find it helpful as we can look at what’s working and not working for you at the moment and help you feel more balanced, centred and hopeful.

NEW NEW NEW !

The Divorce Journal for Kids

Separation and divorce are traumatic events for families.

This journal is designed to help children express, explore and understand some of the strong emotions that they may be feeling and to help them process the divorce for themselves.

Keeping a journal is a very simple, but powerful way to support children.

As caring adults, we can help by simply acknowledging & listening to how a child may be feeling, without trying to “fix it”.

This Journal is designed to support open and honest communication and to help children feel heard, understood and supported during a time of great upheaval.

Here’s just some of the wonderful recommendations for my new  The Divorce Journal for Kids

BUY YOUR DIVORCE JOURNAL FOR KIDS

HERE

Many thanks to HelpGuide.org