Filing for divorce is not a fun process. While you may know deep down that it’s best for you, it can still hurt to suffer such a significant life change. Furthermore, you may also have to navigate child custody and extensive discussions about assets. However, there are ways that you can reduce your stress during the divorce process, improving your experience and overall mental well-being.
We here at Eiges & Orgel, PLLC want to make divorce a non-stressful experience and process. Our experienced family law team has suggestions for improving your mental health and healthily navigating a separation. Keep reading to follow our stress-reduction methods and know that we have your back when you need it.
1. Identify Your Triggers
A crucial step in reducing stress is recognizing what your triggers are. What exactly is contributing to your feelings of anxiety during the separation process? Just saying that it is the “divorce” is not specific enough to help eliminate the source. For example, are you stressed because you fear being alone? Is your ex-spouse behaving rudely? Are you afraid of the way your life might change after the divorce?
All of these triggers are valid when experiencing separation and departure from your routine. However, knowing the cause of your stress goes a long way in eliminating it.
2. Release Your Emotions
Holding on to what you are feeling will only worsen your experience. As you experience feelings, try to air them out in appropriate and healthy ways. For example, emotional tears have been proven actually to contain stress hormones. So by crying and releasing your emotions, you release stress from your body. Furthermore, allowing others to see your feelings lets them know how you feel and need support.
Other activities can also help you release emotions. Working up a sweat and exercising goes a long way in purging pent-up feelings and negative thoughts. Keep a journal where you can record your feelings as they pop up instead of bottling them away.
3. Don’t Isolate Yourself
It’s easy to feel like you are alone during a divorce. Your life is completely changing right before your eyes, and sometimes there is nothing you can do about it. However, isolating yourself will only exacerbate feelings of stress. Reaching out to family and friends can go a long way in creating an environment where you feel supported.
One tip to prevent social isolation is to plan when you are going to hang out with someone. That way, you have regularly scheduled events in your life to look forward to. The people around you may also provide advice that can help you process your feelings.
4. Seek Mental Health Assistance
If you have had difficulty processing your divorce for an extended period, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. A neutral third party can help you navigate your stress regarding the situation and identify the triggers leading to your emotions. Furthermore, they can provide tips or strategies to help manage your stress in that specific moment.
Other mental health resources also exist for those having a hard time with their divorce. For example, there are specific group therapy sessions you can attend. These opportunities provide the additional comfort of knowing that you are not alone.
5. Communicate With Your Legal Team
Remember that it doesn’t have to be all on you to communicate with your ex-spouse. If talking with them makes you stressed, you should rely on the assistance of an experienced divorce attorney. They can help you navigate your divorce, negotiating and representing on your behalf. This way, you do not have to communicate with your ex as much directly.
6. Contact Eiges & Orgel, PLLC for NYC Divorce Attorneys
Our skilled attorneys at Eiges & Orgel, PLLC can help you navigate stress during the divorce process. We want to make sure that your experience is as positive as possible. Contact our team today at (347) 848-1850 to schedule a consultation for your divorce case.