How to Deal With Post-Divorce Depression
Getting through a divorce is one of the hardest things a person can face. Moving on after sharing a life together and having certain expectations of that relationship can be both a letdown and challenge. This is not only because of the emotional attachment but also financial aspects, going through family mediation, division of property, establishing childcare, moving out from a shared property, and more. No wonder people’s mental health suffers. The sudden push out of your comfort zone might leave you feeling fragile and vulnerable.
Divorce causes a lot of stress that can leave you feeling physically exhausted. Overwhelm and fear of the unknown can make people insecure and potentially find it tough to handle simple day-to-day things. According to Survive Divorce, divorce challenges our self-worth and very identity. It changes our relationships with others, both in our inner and outer circles, which can contribute significantly to mental health problems. Here are some helpful remedies for post-divorce mental support that address anxiety, overthinking, and help you to persevere both in the short and long run.
Talk to Yourself
Funny as it seems, talking to yourself can help you realize that moving on is a crucial part of the whole divorce situation. If you’ve been laying in bed unable to get out, you need to seek out professional help. Ask yourself questions like – why are you so hard to yourself? Treat yourself like your best friend! Talk to yourself like you were trying to cheer up the person you love the most.
Let the Emotions go Away
Another element of the post-divorce depression recovery is facing your own emotions. Try to define each emotion step by step – why do you feel the anger, what hurts you the most, how come you feel so frustrated thinking about your future? People are afraid of defining their emotions because it can be a painful procedure, but once you face it, you will ultimately experience some relief. The worst thing is to shut down your emotions and disassociate.
What’s in your head cannot be locked forever. Sooner or later, it can turn into a serious depression. It helps if you find time and way to blow off some steam. If you feel extreme sadness, turn on the alarm clock, go to your bedroom and cry for an hour.
As soon as the alarm rings, get off the bed and engage. Do it for a week, or a month, or more. Give yourself time. Cleaning your body from negative emotions is an essential element of the post-depression treatment, and it works!
Take Your Frustration Out During Workout
Another way of dealing with emotion-packed situations is to engage in exercise. Especially if you feel anger. Find yourself a target to attack with all your frustration and negativity. Sign up for kickboxing classes or any martial arts when you need to use your force. Do it virtually if you have to. There are lots of cool online offerings these days.
Run like the wind! Doing exhausting cardio is also a great way to work through bad thoughts. Moreover, while doing something physical, your body produces endorphins – happiness hormones that you should make use of as much as you can.
Connect with Friends
As much as you are able, socialize with people, whether it’s a safe social distance visit at this time, or connection via Zoom or Skype. Good friends often know just what to say and provide a healthy distraction and outlet for your feelings.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends who love you and have your back can offer a needed sense of protection and stabilization. They know you well and might have a strong sense of what you truly need to heal. Perhaps one of them has experienced a divorce or know someone who has and can help shed some light.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, it’s about being patient with yourself. Divorce can be tough. Honor your feelings and know that you will get through it.
Tags: divorce
