If you are like many Americans, you may have married your partner in your twenties with the intention to remain married well into the future. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 29% of adults between the ages of 18 to 34 in the U.S. had a spouse in 2019.
It can be difficult on an emotional level to cope with the changes in your life after you decide to get divorced. However, there are steps you can take to ease this emotional burden and move forward towards a positive future.
1. Take care of your emotional and mental health
During your divorce, it is more important than ever to make mental and physical wellness a priority. Make time in your day to exercise, eat nutritious foods and relax. Try to stay consistent with your normal routines and wait until you finalize your divorce to make major changes to your life plans.
2. Explore new interests
Divorce can be an opportunity to reinvent yourself. Engage in hobbies you used to enjoy outside of our marital relationship. You may also want to sign up for a class, volunteer for an organization you are passionate about or take time out to make some new friends.
3. Go easy on yourself
The divorce process is a time to ease up on your normal expectations. Tell yourself it is alright to not be as productive at work as you usually are, for example. You may also want to eliminate obligations from your life that are not a necessity temporarily.
4. Rely on your support system
Talking to your friends and family members about your frustrations can help you get through this difficult time in your life. You may also want to join a support group specifically for people going through divorces or talk to a therapist who can help you reduce stress and navigate your emotions.