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Filing for a divorce can be daunting. For many people, it's one of the most challenging things they'll ever do. While you're dealing with the financial and practical ramifications of divorce, it can be hard to look after your own well-being.
Today, we're exploring some ways you can take care of your physical and mental health during your divorce, so you can use the process to transition into a happier, healthier life.
Nobody Is an Island
First things first: You may want to consider scheduling regular sessions with a certified therapist if you're going through a divorce.
Even the most amicable divorce carries with it intense amounts of stress. Dividing property, finding a new place to live, securing new transportation, dealing with children (if you have any)—these are all emotionally draining, time-consuming processes, even if you're on good terms with your soon-to-be-ex.
A therapist can help you identify sources of stress and address them effectively, enabling you to focus on your well-being and making the divorce a transition into a better life.
If you're worried about affordability, click this link for a list of free and low-cost counseling services in New Jersey.
Be Proactive About the Paperwork
Many people underestimate how much time they'll spend on paperwork during the divorce. For example, during the property division process, you'll need to file an inventory of all your separate and marital property with the court. That means everything from the silverware your aunt gave you, to the family pet, to the marital home, needs to be on a list for the court. Omitting items from that inventory—even unwittingly—could result in legal penalties.
Once you know you're headed for divorce, speak with an attorney. Ask them about the various processes you'll need to handle during the divorce like property division, spousal and child support, custody, etc.
Then, work with your attorney to create a schedule for how you'll tackle those processes. Devote a little bit of time every day to handling them. Finalizing a divorce can take a long time, and setting aside even thirty minutes every day to inventory some assets can be a lifesaver in the long run.
Pick Up a New Hobby
It may be a cliché, but that doesn't mean it's not useful advice. Try to pick up a new hobby during your divorce—preferably, something you've never done before, or used to do when you were single.
During divorce, many people struggle with feeling like they're losing a part of their "identity" as they dissolve their marriage. It's completely normal—after spending so much time with your spouse, it can be hard to know who you "are" when you're alone. Finding a hobby you legitimately enjoy and investing time in it can help you regain a sense of purpose and identity as you work through the divorce.
Love Yourself
We're rounding this out with yet another cliché, but it remains good advice. It can be hard to maintain a healthy sense of self-worth during a divorce.
To that end, try picking up a hobby that encourages mindfulness, like meditation or keeping a gratitude journal. Keeping your self-esteem and self-worth high throughout the divorce process can help you use the divorce as the catalyst for a better life post-divorce. The more positive you feel about yourself, the more empowered you'll feel to make moves that help you stay mentally and physically healthy and live your best life throughout the divorce.
At Lane & Lane, LLC, we work with clients to navigate the divorce process with confidence. Our lawyers can help you find the best path forward in your divorce.
To schedule a consultation with our team or learn more about our services, contact us online or via phone at (908) 259-6673.
