10 Tips to overcome Post-Divorce Depression

Divorce is one of the most stressful events a person may experience during a lifetime. Coping with a failed marriage is hard, and some say that it is only next to dealing with the death of a spouse.

Pursuing the divorce was probably in your best interests, but that doesn’t mean you get immunity from experiencing pain and loss.

Perhaps you were the one to initiate the termination of your marriage and it was important for your wellbeing.

There are many possible reasons for wanting out of a marriage, such as a toxic relationship, growing distance, disloyalty, and overwhelming clash of opinions.

Divorce may set you free and give you the opportunity to improve your life, but the newfound freedom comes with challenges.

No matter how much you hated your spouse or how burdensome the marriage became, going through with the divorce is upsetting.

If the divorce was litigated or contested, the anxiety from disputes can linger long after the divorce agreement is finalized.

Working with a divorce attorney makes things easier, but the proceedings are bound to leave you emotionally vulnerable.

If you are suffering from post-divorce depression, these tips shall help you overcome the worst:

Tips to overcome post-divorce depression:

1. Allow yourself to grieve

Many people are hard on themselves after the divorce. They know that getting divorced was the right decision, so they think it is unacceptable to feel sad, angry, or devastated in the aftermath.

They hate themselves for feeling down and dejected, even though it is natural to be that way in their situation. They misinterpret their grief as weakness, thereby viewing themselves as a pathetic and pitiful creature.

Grief has many stages, and it is essential to acknowledge them at your own pace. Divorce is a life-changing event, so take your time to adjust with the ups and downs.

Do not attempt to suppress your emotions or be embarrassed of feeling a certain way. If you are at your lowest right now, tell yourself that this is temporary and that you have what it takes to bounce back.

2. Do not seek comfort in alcohol and drugs

Many people numb their pain with alcohol and drugs, but that is no way to deal with post-divorce depression. Intoxication may grant transitory relief and encourage you to develop an addiction.

Any form of self-medication is equivalent to drug abuse in your circumstances. Stay away from everything with mind-altering properties; otherwise you shall further deteriorate your mental health.

Occasional indulgence doesn’t hurt, but it is easy to get carried away when your mental state is already compromised, so be careful.

3. Work out your frustration

Physical exercise is a highly effective remedy to overcome stress and anxiety, so make sure you get plenty of it. Working out will help release the pent up tension in your body and allow you to feel relaxed.

When you exercise, the body releases endorphins that uplifts one’s spirits and improves mood. You will escape the unceasing fatigue caused by depression, beat insomnia, and increase productivity.

4. Lean on your loved ones

We all need a support system during times when our emotions are running high or we’re exhibiting the symptoms of a broken heart.

If you have friends and family that is willing to accommodate and facilitate you, do not refuse or push them away. Gladly take all the emotional support you can get and know that it is okay to lean on people who care about you.

Talk to them about everything on your mind to feel lighter. They might be able to solve your problems, give valuable advice, or simply offer comforting words that will ease your pain.

5. Push yourself to socialize

Post-divorce depression can drive a person into isolation. It is absolutely normal if you detest the idea of leaving your room and being surrounded by people you have to interact with.

Establishing a voluntary lockdown may sound tempting, but it won’t do you any good. Socializing is probably the last thing you want to do right now, but you have to do it in order to move forwards.

Make plans with friends, say yes to invitations for get-togethers from colleagues, and don’t hesitate to make small talk with strangers.

Take part in community gatherings or join a club where you can get to know people that have something in common with you. An active social life will take your mind off depressing thoughts and make way for new prospects.

6. Don’t rush into a new relationship

Do not start looking for a new relationship right after you ended one. You are probably consumed by loneliness at the moment, so you would be tempted to find solace in the first person at your disposal.

Getting intimate with someone new while you’re still not over your ex is a recipe for disaster. Rebound relationships are emotionally damaging for both parties involved, so avoid them at all costs.

You need to learn to be comfortable by yourself before looking at new relationship prospects. Embrace your independence and enjoy the single life for a while.

Get to know yourself and what you truly want in a potential partner. When things get back to normal, you may begin exploring options whilst taking it slow.

7. Start a journal

It can be difficult to discuss certain topics because they’re too sensitive and complicated. Some things cannot be communicated verbally because you cannot come up with the right words.

When this happens, grab a pen and diary. Anything you struggle to say out loud can be released on paper; this form of catharsis does not require you to confide in another person.

Writing a journal will help take the pressure off your mind and help make sense of contradicting feelings.

8. Focus on a better future

All post-divorce decisions must be made with regard to future consequences. Do not let your depression get out of hand and cast negativity on the next chapter of your life.

One failed relationship should not define you or determine the course of your life. Be mindful and set realistic goals; after that you need to work towards your goals and never falter at obstacles. Let go of the past and do all you can to succeed at achieving happiness.

9. Take care of yourself

The fastest way to get rid of depression is to pamper oneself. When a person takes care of their health and hygiene, the mind and body recovers automatically.

You can start by eating nutritious meals, staying hydrated, getting adequate hours of sleep, keeping clean, and keeping up with your fitness goals.

Being single means that you can finally live on your own terms, so make the best of it. Follow your dreams, make time for your favorite hobbies, and treat yourself every now and then.

Related:

Self-care ideas for a healthy lifestyle routine

10. Consider therapy

If your post-divorce depression is getting in the way of life, consider professional help. There is no shame in seeing a therapist or doctor if you are in a bad place right now.

Your symptoms could be managed by prescription drugs or some alternate treatment. Do not suffer in silence and drag yourself to the point of no return. Depression is a mental disorder that can become lethal if you choose to ignore it.