Tips for Minimizing Stress during Divorce

 Posted on June 26, 2015 in Divorce

Minimizing stress during your divorce may seem impossible. No matter how amicable you and your ex intend on being, going through a divorce is bound to be an emotional and stressful experience. Add children into the mix and the situation can get even more intense. While it may seem like the headaches and heartaches of going through a divorce are unavoidable, there are a few tactics that you can employ to lessen the stress and tension.

Before doing anything else, the first step in limiting your stress level is to pay attention to your own emotions. Due to the chaos your life may be in while separating, and even after separation, it is easy to forget to pay attention to yourself and what you are feeling. Seek out a therapist or divorce support group. Simply having a place to let your emotions out can make a huge difference. Exercise can be another great outlet for stress and difficult to process emotions. Avoiding or denying your feelings could lead to much more serious mental health issues, or even possible drug or alcohol abuse. Sharing and processing your feelings will help you move on to a positive place post divorce.

When it comes to your ex, or soon to be ex, being as friendly to each other as possible will help both of you lessen the stress and financial burden of a divorce. Fighting and anger could just lead to a lengthier divorce and more time spent in court. Consider using relaxation techniques if you are having a hard time moving past the negative emotions you have for your ex. If possible, consider having the two of you meet with a mediator together.

If children are involved, prepare for continued contact with your ex. Going through a divorce is traumatic for children too. Studies show that the most emotionally healthy children, post-divorce, are those that share time with both parents. If speaking with your ex on a regular basis is still too difficult or painful during or after your divorce, consider emailing. Through email you can fill your now "co-parent" in on everything important with your children while avoiding any unnecessary personal conflict.

Always remember that while your divorce is a difficult chapter in your life, many positives await you on the other side. Focus on learning from the past and on any new opportunities that come up in the future. Exploring new activities after divorce may help you move on and reveal interests you never knew you had.

While these tips can help minimize your stress level during or after your divorce, speaking with a qualified Wheaton divorce attorney is always helpful. Contact the law offices of Stock, Carlson, Flynn and McGrath, LLC at 630-665-2500 to speak to an attorney today.