Mental Health REALLY Matters in Divorce
May has been reconized in the USA as Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949. Rarely is a life event more impactful on our mental health than the divorce process.
When facing this life-changing journey, how can one protect his/her mental health and that of the any children in the family? How and when do you know when it’s time to seek professional help through a counselor and/or therapist?
“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, more unashamed conversation.” – Glenn Close
When facing the divorce process, how you begin is crucial. Choosing the right path for you and your family right from the beginning can save everyone a lot of unnecessary angst and turmoil. Is it possible to proceed amicably? Should you start with a parenting plan? The financials? Or with an attorney?
If you’re not sure what is right for you, please download the free DivorceTown USA® Road Map to help you understand your options as you start down this path.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should or need to do it alone.” – Lisa Olivera
When dealing with divorce and mental illness, sometimes simple issues and decisions can become more complicated. Life changing events, like divorce, often exacerbate mental illness symptoms and this could cause the process to take longer or require additional professional/medical assistance.
If this is true in your case, then the safety of you, your children and your soon-to-be ex should be the priority. Once everyone is safe, then you can focus on divorce decisions and details. For those who struggle with self-harm or suicidal thoughts, please keep the number for the suicide hotline[LD1] * handy and never be afraid to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
* SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE: 1-800-273-8255 or Text GO to 741741 to reach a trained Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line, a global not-for-profit organization. Free, 24/7 and always confidential.
“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go, they merely determine where you start.” – Nido Qubein
Whether divorce was your choice or not, even under the best of circumstances, it’s rarely an easy, simple process. You will have bad days and there may be breakdowns before breakthroughs. Tough decisions will need to be made and things may not always go as planned. But you will get through this. And with the right team and resources, you can have a peaceful, healthy divorce and thrive long after it’s over.
Wishing you the very best on this journey and beyond.