Mitigating Stress During Divorce
Jill Dean, M.A., Ed. S., L.P.C.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Pelham, AL. I work with individuals, some of whom are in the process of divorce, and couples of all types. If you are contemplating or have already filed for divorce, then this is likely a time in your life with increased stressors and responsibilities. Self- defense is vitally important. Remembering the basics of plenty of fluids, three meals a day plus two healthy snacks, and personal time for yourself are all great tips. With any situation, such as impending divorce, more care should be directed at emotional and mental needs.
Also consider these five tips to improve your self-care during this difficult season of life:
1. Consider your current environment. Look at changes you can make, such as rearranging furniture, repainting walls, and adding new artwork to walls. Small changes can have a big impact on your mood.
2. Choose an activity that you enjoy, then intentionally make room for it in your schedule. If you normally attend yoga once a week, keeping that schedule can help quell feelings of displacement and add normalcy to your life, even if in a small way.
3. Find a safe outlet for processing your thoughts, emotions, and personal concerns. This may be journaling in a safe, password-protected tablet, talking to a trusted person in your life, mindful meditation, using somatic (body-based) tools to relax, attending a support group online or in person, or individual counseling.
4. Get some form of exercise. Exercise is a natural way to release endorphins, which can help with mood temporarily. Biking, pickleball, yoga, jogging, and swimming are all good activities.
5. Talk to a professional. Don't discount the fact that counseling may help you, even if you feel like you're handling everything well. It can give you a safe spot to talk through issues with an unbiased professional, make safety plans (if needed), and begin to formulate plans for the future.
The information contained in this material is being provided for general educational and informational purposes only, with the specific understanding that it is not intended to be used or interpreted as specific mental health advice. Jill Dean and Women's Wealth Boutique are not affiliated entities.