Divorce is an emotional time for many people in Washington. Accepting the realization that their marriage did not last and adjusting to independence again can take its toll on people’s emotional health.
Choosing to suppress emotions may seem easier initially, but could actually cause a lot of harm in the long term. People who emotionally prepare the best they can and then strive to process difficult emotions as they come, can facilitate healing and take control of their future.
Preparing for divorce
Because divorce often surfaces difficult and deep emotions, people who do not anticipate such extreme feelings may notice their emotional health suffers. According to Psychology Today, people should prepare to grieve. After all, their divorce is the loss of a relationship. Whether or not that relationship meant anything to them by the end, it undoubtedly played a role in shaping their life to this point.
Parents anticipating a divorce can emotionally prepare to provide support to their children even though it may seem easier to withdraw at times. Families can talk about the upcoming changes and collaborate on ways to reduce the emotional strain that everyone feels.
Processing emotions
Emotional suppression can unleash a lifelong battle of emotional disorders including depression, anxiety and even suicidal tendencies in serious cases. Time Magazine suggests that people may turn to harmful behaviors to take their minds away from processing difficult emotions. Whether a result of ignoring emotions or combatting them with negative habits, emotional suppression can also cause headaches, insomnia, autoimmune disorders and psychological distress.
People may look into therapy as a way to help them understand and address powerful emotions. A therapist can help people uncover the root cause of their feelings and identify potential triggers. People can learn about tools and strategies for coping with overwhelming emotions in a productive manner. This method of emotional processing can expedite healing and give people a new lease on life.