Severing an intimate bond with someone you once considered a life partner will undoubtedly cause some emotional upheaval. Fortunately, there are ways to ease the journey back to normalcy. Here are some tips for helping you make it through this difficult time following your Kentucky divorce.
Express your feelings
Acknowledge the possible pain, anger, betrayal, guilt and regret. It’s all right to feel bad, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Talk to friends who may have experienced a similar situation. If they aren’t helpful, speak with a therapist. Don’t keep things bottled up inside you.
Avoid isolation and inactivity
There is comfort in numbers. Staying home alone may lead to depression, drinking and drugs, which is unhealthy. When you feel like you’re sinking in quicksand, go for a walk and say hello to the people you pass. Join an exercise class, or try the machines at your local gymnasium.
Develop new interests
Perhaps there is something that you always wanted to try, but your ex didn’t want to participate, so you never pursued it. Maybe now’s the time to revisit those interests. Staying productive during your free time will give you something to look forward to at the end of the day and on weekends when loneliness is most likely to engulf you.
Timetable for recovery
Once the shock wears off, you will gradually start to feel better. After three months, you can probably focus on the financial aspects of the divorce and start thinking about the future. After a year, you may find yourself adjusting and accepting the situation. Once the internal turmoil dissipates, you will be ready to move on to the next chapter of your life.
Be kind to yourself after your divorce. Take a load off your shoulders, and seek professional advice if you need help with emotional, financial or parental issues.