Let’s face it: divorce is hard. You’re juggling the legalities of dissolving the marriage, trying to envision your changed future, and dealing with a range of emotions, from sadness to anger to fear to grief. Studies have shown that divorce in Singapore can generally increase stress, depression, and visits to medical professionals in both genders, but that it has a particularly stressful for women.
Ask any good divorce lawyer and they`ll tell you how divorce can impact clients’ mental state firsthand. We urge you to read the following five (5) tips to help you cope emotionally with divorce and starting your new life with optimism.
Do the Research
You will feel infinitely better equipped to handle divorce in Singapore if you understand the issues and challenges you may have to face. Research as much as possible about the divorce process in Singapore, whether it’s learning about how assets are divided, obtaining custody of your children, receiving maintenance, or even alternatives to divorce. Make a list of questions for your divorce lawyer and prepare to discuss them in detail. Familiarity with the process will help put your mind–and spirit–at ease.
Acknowledge Your Loss
You might know that divorce is the right thing for you, and still feel paralyzed by feelings of loss and grief. This is completely normal. The end of your marriage also ends dreams of a happy life with your former spouse. If you have children, it means the loss of the stable nuclear family you’d wanted. Divorce may also put a halt to the financial security, companionship, or support to which you’ve been accustomed.
Take the time to acknowledge your loss. Recognize that what you had before and what you can look forward to. Facing your loss and letting go of the past is your first step toward healing.
Find support
It’s one thing to face your pain and grief, but another to deal with it alone. There’s no need to suffer by yourself: seek the help of a professional therapist or divorce support group. Others who have faced this grief and stress can provide valuable encouragement as you work through the process. If you are going through a divorce in Singapore there are a number of online support groups we encourage you to contact. Although it may not feel like it at first, therapy or the right support group can help you to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Start looking to the future
As your grieving becomes less intense, you need to design your new life. A good Singapore divorce lawyer will help you to plan and protect your financial future. But on the emotional side, you must think about other ways to move forward. You might find it invigorating to get rid of your spouse’s belongings or pack up old photos and other reminders of your relationship. Alternatively, you might consider undertaking educational training for a better-paying job or contemplating a move to a new city or home where you can make a fresh start.
Take good care of yourself
Many people engage in self-destructive habits when going though a divorce in Singapore. You may also find that you’re getting sick or having ailments more often than before, as the stress of divorce can weaken your immune system. Unfortunately, these problems can make the stress of divorce even worse, which kicks off a vicious cycle.
Try to engage in activities that make you feel healthy, strong, and positive. Exercise can be especially beneficial, as the release of endorphins naturally boost the mood. But research shows that creative outlets can also increase your sense of well-being and health. If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at tango dancing or pottery, now might be a good time.