Divorce is one of life’s most stressful and unwanted events. In a marriage, two people enter it in love, with only hopes and dreams for their future together. The last thing you think about is what will happen if the marriage falls apart.
The emotional and mental load of negotiating the legal process of a divorce, coupled with the outright uncertainty about the future, can take its toll on your physical and mental wellbeing.
One of the biggest milestones in alleviating some of your stress and pain is securing a mutually agreeable divorce settlement, giving you both a firm foundation to move forward with your lives.
Understanding the importance of a divorce settlement
It’s hard to overstate the value of a divorce financial settlement, especially for your peace of mind. It’s a legally binding document which contains every term of your divorce relating to money and assets, including child maintenance, your ex-spouse’s financial support and any separation of assets. Although a divorce can conclude without such an agreement, this settlement firmly ends the chapter of your former marriage, allowing you to look to the future and take care of number one.
Prioritise your mental health
There’s no two ways about it, a divorce can overwhelm you emotionally. You’ll often feel anxious and drained. Once the divorce proceedings have concluded, your first goal is to put your mental health first. Begin by allowing yourself to grieve the ending of your marriage. Accept that you’ll feel a broad spectrum of emotions, from sadness at the end of what was once a happy relationship to a sense of relief. All the above is part of the natural healing process.
Ring-fence some time to speak with an independent therapist or counsellor. They can give you time to express and make sense of your feelings, gain a fresh perspective and develop ways to cope with your new single life.
Reclaim your physical health
Divorce proceedings often lead to physical neglect, due to the time and mental strain it takes. Whether it’s comfort eating through stress, minimal sleep or simply a decline in your physical activity, reaching a divorce settlement should be your signal to love your body again as well as your mind.
Take up old – or new – sports or exercise classes. Release those much-needed endorphins which can improve your mood and energy levels. Eating properly is vital too. Dedicate time to cultivating a balanced weekly diet, brimming with vitamins, minerals, fibre and a healthy dose of protein. If you’ve never prioritised your diet before, consider a session with a nutritionist who can work with you to devise a diet plan aimed at fuelling your body to get your life back on track.
Reconnect with yourself and others
It’s an unfortunate reality that your social network may have dwindled during marriage and the end of your relationship. Reconnect with old friends and loved ones. Start by doing activities that encourage you to get out of bed when the sun rises. Surround yourself with loving, positive people who remind you of your worth.
With a divorce settlement in place, it’s time to look to the future with positive vibes. Define new targets from a personal and professional level. It’s your opportunity to grow new wings and embark on a new adventure of self-discovery.
For further reading:
- Consider some of the latest cosmetic trends taking the beauty industry by storm
- Why the best yoga techniques could be the answer to your post-divorce woes
