Divorce is an emotionally challenging time. It does not matter how long you have been married or why the marriage has come to an end, you are going to experience negative emotions and stressful challenges. Unfortunately, a lot of people try to channel their complex emotions into anger as it is often easier to process this feeling, but the situation is rarely this simple. In fact, even people who do not believe themselves to have much emotional investment in a relationship are often surprised at how difficult the divorce process can be. If you are currently going through a difficult divorce, here are five ways to manage the stress and take care of yourself.

1. Do not rush into important decisions

In the early days of your divorce, you may be tempted to make big decisions either to speed up the process so that you can close that chapter of your life or to try and regain a sense of control. However, people rarely make good decisions when they are under stress, so try to take some time before making decisions that you may come to regret. There may be lots of practical or financial issues to finalise, especially if you have children, but a family lawyer can guide you through the process so you can make logical rather than emotional decisions.

2. Look after your physical health

When we are under stress, both our mind and body can suffer, but exercising can help to reduce the symptoms of stress, anger, and anxiety. Studies have found that exercise reduces the stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) and triggers the release of endorphins, which help to stabilize our emotions and create a feeling of calmness. When looking after your health, it is also important to maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and avoid drugs and alcohol.

3. Get emotional support

Divorce can bring several intense emotions to the surface, making it difficult to process what you are feeling, and in many ways, it is a grieving process. It is important to find a way to express what you are feeling and to get the right support. You might have friends or family members to talk to, or you may prefer to speak to a professional therapist. There are also divorce support groups, and many people find creative hobbies or keeping a journal to be effective when they are feeling overwhelmed.

4. Practice regular self-care

Make time to look after not only your body but also your mental health by practicing self-care for your mind. This might mean you start spending more time with friends and people who boost your self-esteem and planning activities or trips that bring you joy. Consider taking up a new hobby or learning a new skill. Self-care can be as simple as taking a nap when you need it, getting a massage, reading a book, enjoying a bath, or taking a walk, as long as you are putting yourself first.

5. Accept that you cannot control everything

It is common for people to feel that they are losing control of their lives. The future they had imagined for themselves has gone, the future is uncertain, and it is natural for people to try and take back control. Unfortunately, you cannot control what your ex does or how they feel, so you will need to learn to let go, even when you believe you are in the right. Arguing with your ex over inconsequential issues is only going to add stress and delay the process, so focus on what matters and shake off the rest.