Escalated emotions often surround the end of a marriage. No matter whether you and your spouse had a strained relationship for some time, or you realize your priorities no longer align, the shock of going your separate ways can take a toll on your health.
Since divorce is a process, deciding on factors such as child custody, property division and ongoing financial support may increase tension and anxiety. However, rather than feeling stuck in an unhealthy or unsatisfying relationship, you can look forward to regaining your independence – and peace – as you heal.
Five ways to reclaim health after divorce
Regardless of who filed for divorce or whether you agree your partnership no longer works, bringing things to a close can raise variable inner conflicts. You might question whether you’re making the right choice, feel a sense of shame or blame yourself for the dissolution.
Combined with the decisions you’re already forced to make and ambiguity about moving forward, a temporary loss of sleep and mental clarity are likely. You might even experience a physical sense of pain as you process the changes taking place.
Whether or not you can wrap your mind around an eventual improvement in your circumstances, you might be wise to:
- Take time to reflect
- Evaluate your values and set goals for the future
- Allow yourself the opportunity to grieve what you’ve lost
- Learn about healthy ways to interact with your former spouse
- Develop community as you reestablish yourself as a single
While time won’t erase the pain of past situations, it will provide space to reconcile internal struggles, if not those with your ex. At some point, this distance may allow you to accept the closure you need, along with the ability to regain both your mental and physical well-being.