6_tips_to_help_you_cope_with_divorceIt goes without saying that divorce can be a traumatic time in your life. It can not only leave you feeling listless and adrift without a plan, but also emotionally drained, and can make you doubt your self-worth. Those feelings are normal, and there’s good news on that front – they will pass! Here are some quick and easy tips you can use to help make those feelings pass more quickly.

Talk About It – One of the worst things you can do when going through a divorce is to keep everything bottled up inside. True, you don’t want to go to the mat with your soon-to-be-ex and get into a series of nasty brawls with him or her, but you do need someone to talk to. A parent, a friend…preferably someone who’s been where you are right now, and can relate and share stories and experiences.

Don’t Stay Home – The temptation is high to sit at home and have a giant pity party, but resist that urge! If you sit at home and mope about your circumstances, you’ll feel bad for a longer period of time than if you get out and do something. It doesn’t matter if you feel like you’re just going through the motions in the beginning, the cure for depression isn’t a big tub of Ben and Jerry’s, it’s action.

Reconnect With YOUR Interests – It happens in a marriage. Your spouse just isn’t into some of the same things you are, so slowly, over time, those things fall out of your life. Reintroduce yourself to those things you love, but have allowed yourself to neglect.

Don’t Take It Personally – Divorce seldom occurs for just one reason. There are usually complex reasons, and the fractures and fault lines probably existed in your marriage long before the big, catalyzing event that ultimately led to the decision to divorce. Understand that, and try not to take it personally. Easier said than done, but if you don’t, it will drive you crazy.

Avoid Catfights – One of the best ways to cope with a divorce is to minimize the fighting and drama that can sometimes accompany them. Just say no. If the spouse you’re divorcing calls to fight about it, hang up. Just simply decline to participate in it.

And finally, be good to yourself. Once a week, treat yourself in some small way. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant. Something as simple as a coffee at your favorite bookstore will suffice, but each and every week, do something nice for YOU. It makes a world of difference.