BROOKLYN, New York. Divorce can have a major impact on your whole family’s mental health. Adults and children alike may suffer from additional stress and emotional distress. According to the Cleveland Clinic, some signs of emotional distress include: lack of energy, difficulty making decisions, changes in sleep, feeling more emotional, and increased use of drugs or alcohol to manage stress. If you are going through a divorce, it is important to find ways to manage stress and conflict. However, many people feel overwhelmed. What can you do?
Speak to a qualified divorce lawyer like the Elliot Green Law Offices in Brooklyn, New York. Even if your divorce seems pretty straightforward, it can be difficult to know all your rights and options without legal counsel. A lawyer can help reduce your stress and even serve as a mediator as you and your ex resolve some of the crucial issues that divorce raises. Parenting plans, for instance, can be difficult to change after they have been finalized. The choices you and your ex make during your divorce can have an enduring impact on your family life for years to come. It is important to get it right the first time. Having a professional on your side can decrease stress and possibly even decrease the conflict you encounter as you finalize your divorce.
Consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Stress from divorce can lead to insomnia and cycles of conflict when communicating with your ex. Some individuals are able to find relief from some of these psychological symptoms through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This kind of therapy doesn’t involve the use of drugs. It also doesn’t require a long-term commitment to therapy. According to Goop, six sessions is usually sufficient to treat insomnia, though each person’s needs will be unique.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help you manage stress and address maladaptive thoughts related to your divorce. It can also help patients manage depression, anxiety, and other emotions that arise during divorce without the need for pharmaceuticals. Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help adolescents manage the stress of divorce.
Consider exercising. Exercise releases endorphins, which help you feel better. For mild depression, exercise has been found to be just as useful as taking medication. So, before you medicate your sadness away, try to run it off on the treadmill. Every little bit counts. Even a brisk walk can make a difference in your mood and your health.
Keep to a regular schedule and don’t let the changes to your life disrupt your schedule too much.
Finally, make sure you have a sound support network. Many divorcing individuals face the loss of some of their support networks as friends “take sides.” Find new support networks. Join a fitness class, find a support group, or try meditating. Having a good divorce lawyer in Brooklyn, New York on your side also makes a difference. You’ll have many questions as you get divorced—from questions about finances, child support, child custody, and division of assets. Visit https://www.elliotgreenlaw.com/ to learn more about how our firm can help you navigate some of these challenges.
