Did you know that approximately 50% of all marriages in the United States end in divorce? This is a shocking number and unfortunately, for both partners, the aftermath of divorce can leave one feeling depressed, lonely, confused and unhappy. Fortunately, these feelings do not last forever and there are several coping mechanisms you could use to get rid of your divorce blues once and for all.

Talking About How You're Feeling

Divorce will leave you with a ton of different emotions and feelings. One day you may feel resentful, whereas the next day you may feel relieved. The ups and downs can be confusing and tiring for even the most emotionally strong person. It is recommended that you talk about how you are feeling and let it all out.

Joining a divorce support group, or calling a family member or friend to vent your feelings to, is a wonderful way to ease the heartache. Keeping a journal, where you write down your innermost thoughts, can also help with the grieving process.

Nurture Yourself

You are single now! It is the perfect time to focus on you and only you! Do things you have always wanted to do and take the time out to heal yourself and soothe yourself. Joining that new aerobic fitness class at the gym or taking a mini vacation with your best friends could be just what the doctor ordered.

Enjoy the time you have to yourself. Partaking in activities that are simple can ease the anxiety associated with divorce. For example, going for nature walks, rocking out to your favorite tunes, reading a great novel or even savoring a warm cup of tea can keep your stress and depression at bay.

Better Yourself

We all know it takes two to tango. When divorce occurs, it is usually because both partners have failed at the relationship. Instead of beating yourself up about it, be honest with yourself and change for the better. Maybe you need to work on your communication skills or maybe you need to sort out your past childhood issues, so that they do not become a complication when you get involved in your next relationship. 

Whatever it is that is keeping you from feeling fulfilled, be sure to get it squared away. Focus on your self esteem, your confidence and have a little faith in yourself. 

One of the main things you will need to do to successfully cope with your divorce is to make sure you are in control of your own feelings and that they are not in control of you. During such a sensitive time in your life, you will learn much more about yourself, which in turn will allow you to make some amazing lifestyle adjustments. 

For more on divorce, check out Nichols, Speidel, & Nichols.

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