tips for coping during a divorce
getting started
try these tips for less stress and more peace as you move forward through the divorce process.
- educate yourself.
learn how divorce works in your province. go to www.canada.ca/family-law to learn more about resources available in canada. research legal aid organizations. ask for advice from trusted friends who've been through a divorce.
- have a plan.
start by making a to-do list that covers areas like finances, homes, boundaries, and children. break down the areas into small steps.
- consider mediation.
for some couples, mediation can be more peaceful and lead to better communication than when lawyers are used. plus, it can be cheaper, quicker, and less stressful.
- put your children first (if you have children).
this can be hard. but your kids will do better if you keep the focus on what's best for them.
- communicate and co-operate.
do your best not to say bad things about each other. talk when you're calm and use notes. if things get heated, call a "time-out."
- let the relationship change.
let go of old patterns. agree to disagree. and keep the focus on what's really important.
- take care of you.
be kind to yourself. pay attention to the things that bring you joy and do more of those things.
current as of: june 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff
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all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
