You may soon be speaking to a divorce lawyer, and pursuing what may be the biggest change you have gone through since you got married to begin with.  If this is the unfortunate position you find yourself in, you are very likely already suffering from emotional trauma.  Conflict within a marriage can take its toll on the mental health of both spouses.  Unfortunately, the process of getting a divorce doesn’t often make things any better, especially when there are contested issues. The following are some practical tips from an experienced family lawyer to, quite literally, help you maintain your sanity .   

3 Tips for Self-Care During Divorce 

1. Seek Professional Counseling

Chances are, you did not get into the position of wanting a divorce if you are perfectly happy.  If you have not sought professional counseling before seeking a divorce, you may find it helpful both during and after a divorce.  You may gain confidence in the decision you’ve made.  You may learn that divorce is not the right answer for you at this time and decide to reconcile with your spouse.  You may learn that you’ve fallen into unhealthy patterns that you’re likely to repeat if you don’t try really hard to change some things now.  While lawyers are sometimes referred to as “counselors”, they are not typically the best people to assist you with these issues.  A professional counselor can be a helpful addition to your divorce “team”, and help you come out on the other side of divorce a happier, healthier individual. 

2. Resist the Temptation to Date

Other than the obvious fact that you are still married until you are divorced, getting emotionally involved with another individual can complicate a divorce on multiple levels.  Even if you are not being intimate with someone and thus committing adultery, rest assured you will be accused of it if your spouse discovers the relationship.  We are all human and have needs for human contact. But your divorce will be over soon enough.  Don’t make things more difficult for yourself and your children, if you have them, by involving another individual too soon.   

3. Maintain/Improve Your Physical Health

Use this time to make personal improvements.  Regular exercise will be good for your heart,  help you manage stress, improve your sleep and your confidence.  Eat right and take it easy on alcohol.  If you have children, be active and involved with them during the time you have together.  If you’re engaging in a healthy lifestyle, they will be encouraged to follow suit.  This, in turn, will help with the stress that they are also likely to experience in this process.  Happier parents usually make happier children.    Consider massage therapy and other spa treatments for additional stress relief.      

If you’ve decided to end your marriage, turn to the divorce lawyers at Patton & Hyder PLLC for guidance. Located in Crossville, this full-service firm is proud to counsel clients throughout central and eastern Tennessee. In addition to family law disputes, their knowledgeable attorneys can assist with personal injury claims, civil litigation, criminal defense, real estate transactions, and Social Security disability benefits. To request a consultation with a strategic divorce lawyer on their team, reach out on their website or call (931) 787-1333.