Even if the split is amicable, going through a divorce can be extraordinarily trying. The stress can affect every area of your life, even if you think you have a handle on it. This is the time to go back to basics when it comes to self-care. Consider divorce therapy to deal with your anger and anxiety. Learn how to stay healthy physically, emotionally and spiritually when going through a divorce.
Seek Help From Friends & Family
Numerous studies have confirmed the connection between having a strong support system and one’s physical and mental health. The American Psychological Association’s Stress in America survey, for example, says respondents with emotional support systems in place reported less stress than those without. And according to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, people with low levels of social support are at increased risk of heart disease, cancer and infectious diseases.
It’s always important to have such a support system, but it is critical when going through a divorce. Seek and nurture these types of relationships. Look to friends, neighbors, co-workers and family. Ask them for help. Don’t be afraid to expand your social circle and try new groups and hobbies.
Eat Right & Exercise
Don’t let these things slide because you’re going through a rough time; in fact, this is precisely when you need to stay on top of these healthy habits. Eating right helps you get the nutrition you need to combat emotional distress. Take a look:
- B vitamins help you regain energy after a stressful episode
- Vitamin C helps your adrenal glands produce hormones that fight stress
- Magnesium aids in muscle relaxation and can help reduce anxiety attacks
You know how important exercise is in maintaining physical health, but it’s an important component in your emotional health, too. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, exercise helps lower fatigue, boosts concentration, improves sleep and increases overall cognitive function.
Consider Seeing a Therapist
There is no shame in seeking professional counseling. If anger is overwhelming you, if you’re experiencing anxiety attacks or if you’re having trouble carrying out normal activities, seek divorce therapy. Therapists are trained to help you develop coping strategies that enable you to emerge from your divorce healthy and strong.
Teletherapy is an option, especially for people with busy schedules. In teletherapy, you receive counseling from a competent, certified therapist via video conference. It’s perfect if you don’t have the time or means to make it to a therapist’s brick-and-mortar office. Contact <ThriveTalk.com> to learn more about teletherapy services.
Stick to a Normal Schedule
Fight the urge to hide and isolate. Suffering begets suffering, and it’s more important than ever to get up, shower, go to work, and do all the normal things you always do.
Not that it’s not OK to stay home every now and then and enjoy some “you” time — that in and of itself is a healthy thing — just check your motivation. If you’re doing it to hide from the world, that’s a problem. If you’re doing it to enjoy some quiet time and to rest and recharge, that’s another thing entirely. You’ll know the difference.
Practice Mindfulness
Tend to your spirit. Mindfulness is a technique that enables you to be fully present, to be aware of yourself, and to find peace regardless of the storms that rage outside. Prayer and meditation are practices that increase mindfulness, as are being in nature and helping others. Visit Mindful.org to learn more.
Reach Out
Divorce is difficult, but you can get through it. It’s vital that you take care of your mind, body and spirit. If you think you might need professional help, visit <ThriveTalk.com> to schedule a teletherapy session with a trained counselor. Life can be beautiful again — promise.