The emotional challenges that come hand in hand with divorce can be incredibly distressing and emotionally charged.
Whatever your reasons for divorce, there is no simple way to grieve the loss of a relationship. Unlike a bereavement, where you may be able to take time off work, grieving a divorce often requires a balance between knowing how to deal with divorce and carrying on with your daily life.
Although we all process grief in different ways, there are several coping mechanisms to deal with the initial shock and grief. Many people find it difficult to accept what is happening and acknowledge the reality of the loss.
With this in mind, you should always prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing during this time, and it is completely normal to seek professional support if needed. At the same time, the involvement of a family lawyer who specialises in family law can also prove to be incredibly beneficial.
Within this article, we have explored the many ways that you can deal with divorce.
The Initial Shock and Grief of Dealing with Separation
The initial shock and grief that comes hand in hand with separation can be a very difficult and incredibly overwhelming experience. And it’s not uncommon to experience a rollercoaster of emotions during this period of sudden change and uncertainty.
For example, many people will experience feelings of shock and denial, sadness and loss, anger and resentment, confusion and uncertainty, as well as many practical concerns such as child custody, living arrangements and finances.
At the same time, feelings of loneliness and isolation can also prove to be difficult to deal with, especially during the early stages of a divorce. Above all, don’t bottle up your emotions, cry if you need to, seek the support you need and always set boundaries.
Embracing Acceptance and Healing
Accepting and healing after a divorce is a crucial part of your journey of recovery, and it’s important that you embrace this part of the healing process.
Although there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to acceptance and healing, there are a number of techniques you can employ to support the process.
- Acknowledge your emotions
- Cry if you need to
- Practice self-compassion
- Prioritise self-care
- Rebuild your support system
- Establish healthy boundaries
- Embrace personal growth opportunities
- Practice forgiveness
- Embrace self-discovery
Finally, start to focus on moving forward and building a new future.
Your Divorce and Mental Health
There’s no denying that divorce can have a significant impact on your mental health, provoking a whole host of different emotions and challenges. With this in mind, it’s more important than ever that you take the necessary steps to protect your mental health at all costs during a divorce.
You can do this by:
Acknowledging your emotions: You should never bottle up your emotions, and you should always seek comfort and support by opening up to family, friends or a therapist.
Practicing self-care: Prioritising and practising self-care frequently is key to protecting your mental well-being during a divorce. Make sure that you eat well, exercise frequently, engage in activities you enjoy, and put yourself first. You should also maintain your normal routine!
Counselling and Professional Help
While it’s important to have a support system of your family and friends around you, it can be difficult to open up completely to those who are close to you. This is why it’s a good idea to seek help from a therapist who can provide all of the guidance and encouragement you need during this challenging time. They can help you to develop healthy coping mechanisms and work through difficult emotions.
There’s a whole host of resources available, including:
NHS Talking Therapies: This is a fantastic resource for finding NHS-funded therapy services in England.
Mind: This well-known mental health charity provides information and resources for finding a therapist in the UK to support you.
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP): BACP provides a therapist directory that is ideal for searching for qualified therapists in your area based on location, therapy type, and other criteria.
Support for Your Divorce
I understand that divorce can be one of the most challenging times in your life, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My approach is centred around you and your unique situation. Whether it’s providing expert legal advice, guiding you through the complexities of international divorce, or helping you understand your rights and options, I am committed to making the process as smooth as possible for you.
I offer personalised consultations to discuss your specific needs and concerns, ensuring you feel heard and understood. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions about your future. From negotiating settlements to representing you in court, I am dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Why you should choose Cath Karlin Family Law
With over 25 years of professional and personal experience in navigating the difficulties that divorce can present, I am an expert in family law. My specialist knowledge of Scottish law has earned me rankings in both Chambers and the Legal 500, and I have helped countless expats navigate their international divorces.
I fundamentally believe that my role as a family lawyer is to help you build a positive future. I specialise in a holistic approach to divorce and separation, always recommending collaborative practice or mediation as the preferred means of dispute resolution whenever possible to help minimise stress and uncertainty during times of heightened emotional difficulty.
I have particular expertise in advising clients working in the oil and gas industry, who often reside in areas where they do not wish to apply for international divorce. Additionally, I have a sound understanding of North American and European legal systems, having spent over 10 years sitting on the board of international organisations.
Get in touch today to find out more and take the first step towards navigating your international divorce in Edinburgh.
