Divorcing or separating can be an extremely difficult time in a person’s life. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. With this in mind, it is important to seek support as soon as possible, to avoid finding yourself in a situation beyond your control. This article will give you an idea of where you can seek support during a divorce or when going through a really difficult separation.
Your GP
If anxiety is causing you issues, or you feel like you may be suffering from depression as a result of your separation, then seeking help from your GP is a good call. Your GP will be able to prescribe medication should they feel you need it, as well as refer you to further services that can support you.
Family and Friends
Family and friends are often a great source of comfort during difficult times in our lives. Not only are they usually willing to lend an ear, but they can also provide other forms of support such as somewhere to stay, childcare, or financial help.
Having your family and friends as a support network during a divorce can be incredibly important. And if you need help talking to your children when going through a divorce, your family can be a great support to them, and to you.
Counselor or Therapist
Sometimes your GP will refer you to a therapist or counselor; however, if you have the means, you may also opt to see a therapist on a private basis. Therapy is a good idea when going through a separation as it allows you to process the things you are thinking or feeling, which you may not otherwise say.
When we don’t talk about things, they can become suppressed issues that will hinder us in later relationships and so talking through your experiences is often a way to lift a weight from your shoulders, whilst supporting your long-term mental health.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice is a free service that provides advice and support on financial matters including separation, housing, and benefits. It is a great place to start if you feel you need support but don’t have money available for mediation or solicitors. They can also advise you on any legal aid you may be entitled to.
Mediators
A mediator is a person who will facilitate a conversation that may otherwise be difficult with a view to reaching an agreement. It is often done as a step before going to court and can help you find a compromise in a less expensive and stressful way. Don’t underestimate the usefulness of a mediator as a source of support during a divorce.
Divorce Lawyers
Divorce lawyers are legally trained professionals who will help you make both financial and family arrangements when it comes to divorce and separation. They can also advise you on other steps such as court proceedings should you need to go down that route. They can help you make arrangements for child custody agreements, division of assets, and other items which couples may need support to put in place during a separation.
Financial Advisors
If you have a lot of joint assets such as property, shares or bonds, then it may be worth seeking the advice of a financial advisor. This person will give you impartial advice which will then allow you to make clear, informed decisions between the two of you.
Charities
There are charities out there that can help people in many different circumstances. Mental health charities such as Mind may be able to provide support if you are struggling with the emotional impact of separation, and other charities such as Step Change can support you if you find yourself left with debt following a divorce.
You should never feel alone when you’re experiencing difficulties in life such as separation or divorce. There are plenty of sources of support available to you as you go through this stage.
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