How to Handle Divorce-Related Anxiety

Divorce can cause a lot of changes in your life. Though those changes are often for the better in the long run, you might experience some negative symptoms in the short-term. One is a sudden increase in your anxiety thanks to the many changes you’re experiencing at this point in your life. If you’re unable to get a handle on the anxiety you’re dealing with, it’s important to get help from professionals who can work with you on easing your apprehension as you go through divorce. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take at home to reduce your anxiety. Here’s what you need to know.

Symptoms of Anxiety

It’s common to be anxious during divorce. But if you don’t have any experience with this condition until now, you might not even be sure that what you’re dealing with is anxiety. Some of the most common symptoms to look out for include an increase in both your heart rate and your breathing as well as a feeling of nervousness.

You might also start sweating more than usual, and it’s common to have difficulty getting to sleep. An upset stomach is another anxiety symptom to look out for. If you notice most of these symptoms during your divorce, it may be time to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. But while you wait for your doctor’s appointment, you should consider what to do and what not to do for your anxiety.

How to Reduce Your Anxiety at Home

There’s a lot to be nervous about during divorce. But the reality is that not every fear you have is real or worth worrying about. Consider how likely it is for some of your fears to actually happen. Once you realize you’re likely only thinking about the worst-case scenario–and forgetting about the best case scenario completely–you might get some relief from your anxiety.

If you’re still anxious during your divorce, you might start trying to avoid anything that could increase your anxiety. This might work for now, but it’s not a long-term solution. You’ll start realizing you’re missing out on life because you’re anxious, and that’s not how you should be living after your divorce.

Instead of avoiding everything, try the STOPP method, which is a type of therapy that can help you get more in control of your feelings. Here’s what you need to know about STOPP:

• Stop: Pause for a few seconds.
• Take a breath: Pay attention to your breathing.
• Observe: Notice the thoughts in your mind and the sensations in your body.
• Pull back: Get some perspective by thinking about the big picture.
• Practice what works: Decide what the best thing to do is, and then do it.

You can practice the STOPP method at home so you can get in control of your anxiety. Of course, you’re not alone in this. You can also lean on friends and family during this time, as they should be willing to lend an ear so you can talk about your feelings during the divorce. You can also go to counseling for professional help with your anxiety. And when you need a legal professional for advice involving family law, come to the Edgar & Dow so you can start feeling confident in your decisions during the divorce.