If you’ve separated from your partner and are in the process of getting a divorce, this is likely to be a difficult and emotional time for you.
Although there isn’t a “perfect” way to handle the separation, there are steps you can take to simplify the process for both yourself and your family.
Here, we explore several ways you can forge a path to a healthy and amicable split.
Acknowledge and process your emotions
Firstly, it’s essential to acknowledge and process your emotions. Getting a divorce is painful and difficult, regardless of whether it was you who wanted it.
It’s important for you to fully grieve the marriage, acknowledge your emotions, and permit your body and mind to comprehend the situation.
Try not to shut down and bottle things up – it may offer temporary relief but isn’t helpful in the long run.
There are many methods you can try to process your emotions, such as counselling, speaking to loved ones, journalling, and simply giving yourself time and space to cry.
Implement healthy communication
You and your ex-spouse should figure out how to communicate with one another as you’re getting divorced.
This may be easier said than done, particularly if you’re splitting on bad terms.
In such cases, seeking specialist legal support and mediation may be beneficial. If you find it difficult to reach agreements on matters such as child arrangements or finances, a mediator can facilitate an open dialogue.
They may be able to assist you with resolving disputes amicably and coming up with agreements that are best for your family as a whole.
Co-parent with compassion
If you have kids together, it’s important to come up with a co-parenting plan that prioritises the well-being of the children.
To do this successfully, you need to try as best you can to separate your feelings towards your ex from the parenting.
Think of the personal and parenting relationships as two completely separate things. This will allow you to work together as a team solely with the interests of the kids in mind.
Communicate as much as you can to ensure that your kids have consistency, routine and support from both of you as you navigate the divorce.
If you’ve split but are yet to initiate proceedings, you can start your divorce online from the comfort of your own home.
Experienced solicitors will work with you throughout the process, helping you with difficult decisions around child arrangements, finances, splitting of assets and more.
Not only may this help you get the best possible result for you and your family, but offer the guidance and support you need to move forward feeling positive about the future.
As well as specialist lawyers, there are plenty of organisations here to help you at this difficult time. You can find further guidance on getting a divorce through Citizens Advice and the Government websites.