Divorce is never easy. It is a highly emotional process that determines the shape of your future and is something you must prepare for. Generally, when people consider preparing for a divorce, they think about gathering paperwork, identifying community and separate property, creating a budget, and organizing finances. And while all these are important steps to take before filing, there are other things to consider to get ready for what’s to come.
Aside from doing all the administrative work involved in a divorce, focusing on yourself is also essential. More specifically, taking care of your emotional and physical well-being is vital to help process what can be a negative and challenging experience and stay healthy through it all. To prepare for your divorce, you can also develop a support system, stay active, think about your wants, and be respectful.
At Claery & Hammond, LLP, our Los Angeles lawyers take care of the legal details of divorce cases, allowing our clients to focus on their well-being. Schedule a consultation by contacting us at (310) 817-6904.
Considerations for Your Mental and Physical Health During a Divorce
Taking care of your mental and physical welfare is just as important as taking care of the legal aspects of your divorce. Staying healthy can stave off negative emotions and psychological states that can develop during the divorce process. Below, we discuss some things that can help protect your well-being.
Establishing a Support System
A divorce can be complicated and contentious. You’ll have to go through several legal processes and settle many critical issues. You and your spouse might not agree on everything; even if you do, your life will change substantially.
You’ll have a lot to process, and when dealing with complex matters, it can be helpful to talk things through with others. Identifying and expressing your emotions can reduce stress, as you become more aware of what’s going through your mind and are better equipped to find solutions.
Before or early on in your divorce, identify trusted individuals you can turn to and discuss what you’re feeling. If you don’t feel comfortable talking with family or friends about your situation, you could think about seeing a professional, like a counselor.
Taking Time for Your Physical Health
If you don’t already have an exercise routine, getting started on one before your divorce can help you stay healthy. Physical activity can reduce stress by lowering hormones like cortisol. Exercise can also produce endorphins, also called the “feel-good” chemicals, which lead to relaxation and optimism.
Getting started on a fitness regime can be difficult. Still, it can help deal with negative emotions and adversities that might come your way.
Thinking About What You Want
Many key issues need to be settled in your divorce. Knowing how you want things to turn out is a good idea.
Before your divorce, identify your wishes for things such as:
Your divorce may not resolve exactly how you want, but it’s good to be able to voice your desires and know that you attempted to find a solution to fit your best interests. Also, when you’re aware of what you want, you're better able to determine what you’re willing to compromise on, which could help make things less contentious.
Deciding Whether to Stay or Move Out
If you and your spouse are still living together, you might want to consider whether the current situation is ideal while you go through the divorce process. Things may get heated at home, so it might be necessary to stay with a friend or family member or find other living arrangements until your divorce is finalized.
If you are in an abusive situation, take practical steps to protect yourself and your family. That might mean leaving a shared residence. You could also petition for a temporary restraining order to prevent your abuser from contacting you.
Remaining Respectful
A divorce can be a difficult experience. Emotions run high, and they’re not always the most positive. If you interact with your soon-to-be ex, or others in your close circle, try to remain cordial. Your conduct before and during divorce could be considered when decisions about key issues are made. Saying or doing something in anger could negatively affect your case.
Consulting with an Attorney
Retaining legal representation for your divorce can help relieve some of your burdens and stress. Your lawyer can explain the process and your rights and options and work to protect your best interests.
To speak with one of our Los Angeles attorneys, please call Claery & Hammond, LLP at (310) 817-6904 or submit an online contact form today.