Ways to Cope with the Grief of Divorce
Sometimes, relationships run their course and must come to an end. The breaking of a relationship can be devastating no matter the reason for it ending. Finding healing after divorce can take some time. In this article, we will give you some tips for coping with the grief of divorce as you work your way toward moving on.
Why We Feel Grief After Divorce
Many people think grief should be reserved for the death of a loved one, but there are many reasons one may feel grief. The loss of an important relationship is one of them. You may feel grief after divorce because you are experiencing:
The Loss of a Close Companion
Your partner is somebody you were emotionally intimate with. Losing that closeness can be devastating.
The Loss of the Support You Received from Them
Whether your partner offered you financial, emotional, or another type of support, it can hurt to lose the support a marriage brings.
The Loss of the Future You’ve Dreamt Up
When you marry somebody, you plan your future with them by your side. Divorce means all of your future plans will be changing in some way or another.
The Stress of Starting Anew
It can be scary to start over after divorce. Sometimes that means moving houses, moving cities, making new friends, and many other things. Change can be scary and stressful.
The Fear of Ending Up Alone
Getting divorced can dredge up a fear that you will not find somebody else. It can feel isolating and scary to think that somebody who loved you will no longer be in your life.
Ways to Cope with the Grief of a Divorce
Coping with divorce can be painful for many reasons. No matter the reason you are grieving the loss of your marriage, these coping techniques can help you get through the difficult emotions you are facing.
Validate Your Own Feelings
Your feelings about the divorce, whether they be sadness, anger, relief, or something else, are completely validated and deserve to be felt. Do not push your feelings aside for fear they are not rational. This will only make it harder to move forward.
Let Yourself Have Time and Space to Work Through It
Take the time you need to grieve in the way that feels right to you. If you need a break from work, take the break. If you need space, take some space. If you need to lean on loved ones, lean on them.
Lean on the People Who Make You Feel Supported and Loved
Grief can be incredibly isolating for anyone. Do not allow yourself to pull away from your support system, though. They will be critical in your healing. Let your loved ones know that you need them and accept the help and support that they offer you.
Contact a Mental Health Specialist
Sometimes, we need a little professional help to get through the difficult feelings associated with divorce. If you are considering therapy for your grief, we are here for you. Contact us today, and we will partner with you to work through the complex emotions associated with the loss of something important to you.
References
Keywords: CBT, marriage counseling, grief, therapist, relationship