It’s frequently said that divorce is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can go through. In fact, some studies suggest that the only thing worse than a divorce is the death of a child. Although it’s widely regarded as a very difficult process, many people feel as though they can forgo therapy in order to save time and money. Alternatively, due to the mental health stigma in the United states, a lot of people have feelings of shame and embarrassment surrounding therapy. Though getting help from a qualified mental health professional may be overwhelming for some, attending therapy can help make the divorce process easier in the long run.
You’re Getting Mental Health Advice from Your Lawyer
Although your family law attorney likely knows a thing or two about marriage, divorce, and mental health during divorce, they are not qualified to give you advice on any of the aforementioned topics. Remember, you are paying your attorney to give you legal advice that’s customized to your specific situation. You are not, or at least you shouldn’t be, paying your attorney to give you any other type of advice. Not only is your attorney unqualified to give you such advice, they’re also likely going to charge a lot more for the time than a mental health professional, especially if the mental health professional is covered by your insurance plan.
You’re Ready to Slash Your Ex’s Tires
Your ex may be the type of person who can make the most laid back person have violent outbursts. If your ex’s behavior is inspiring you to behave erratically, or blow up their phone with wall texts about how terrible they are, it may be time to see a therapist. Even though your ex is the crazy one, your therapist may have some valuable insight as to how you can set boundaries and cope with your ex’s bad behavior. It’s totally normal for people to act as if they aren’t quite themselves when they’re going through the divorce process. Maintaining your mental health with the help of your therapist could help you achieve a sense of normalcy during a very stressful time.
You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
Divorce really can break people. We tell our clients that no one dies from divorce because it’s true: divorce itself can’t kill you. Leading attorney, Jill Coil even wrote a book titled No One Dies from Divorce. However, the stress, depression, and loneliness that can come with divorce has tragically driven many people to desperate measures. Regularly attending therapy sessions or going to support groups can help you develop healthy coping skills. Going through divorce can be overwhelming for even the most organized person. The coping skills you could develop in a therapeutic environment may help you get through a divorce with much less emotional trauma.
You’re Having Suicidal Thoughts
As we previously mentioned, no one dies from divorce; divorce itself cannot kill you. However, the feelings that come with divorce can be extremely challenging for anyone. Feeling lonely, isolated, withdrawn, and depressed, is completely normal. Others feel a sense of rage, anger, resentment, and more. These feelings can be intense, and they can lead people to some very dark places. Tragically, we’ve seen an increase in suicide rates due to the pandemic. The aforementioned, coupled with a divorce and powerful emotions, can be a recipe for disaster and tragedy. If you have thoughts of suicide, or you are considering taking your life, do not hesitate to reach out for help today. We’ve helped so many clients get through the divorce process and we can promise you with certainty that it really does get better. Having a better understanding of the legal process and your emotions will help you have a better perspective and provide some hope for the future. Your attorney and therapist working in tandem can assist you in accomplishing these tasks.
You’re Not in the Present
It’s normal for people who are going through divorce to have a difficult time being in the present. This may mean that a person is living in the past, longing for what they consider to be better times. Or, it may mean that the person is filling their lives with distractions and escapism. Sadly, many people choose to escape into recreational drugs or alcohol. Though these activities are able to offer short term relief, they often damage a person’s ability to achieve long term happiness. If you’re having trouble living your life in the now, attending regular therapy sessions may be able to help you be more available for the activities that really matter to you.
When You Need Legal Advice
If you’re ready to file for, or need assistance with your divorce, CoilLaw is here for you. Our attorneys have helped guide many clients through the divorce processes by giving quality legal advice and fighting for their rights. Though divorce can be an incredibly difficult time, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
