7 Tips for Recovering Emotionally from a Divorce Later in Life

 Posted on April 07, 2020 in Divorce

While finances are a major part of your life that will dramatically change upon going through a gray divorce, the emotional impact of that divorce can be staggering and sometimes even incapacitating. That is because, at your age, the challenges resulting from a divorce are either completely different from those faced when younger, and they may be greatly exacerbated or more difficult to manage due to circumstances in your life. Following is a closer look at the emotional toll of a gray divorce and how you can overcome it.

Advice to Manage Emotional Challenges of a Gray Divorce

With gray divorces being one of the most common types of divorces these days, more and more Baby Boomers are faced with the new prospect of living the rest of their lives without their partners. Here are some ways to avoid or limit the emotional difficulties you might face as a result:

1. Minimize Stress—With a divorce, especially one later in life, comes numerous stressors, including financial complications, health concerns, and other issues. You need to figure out how to cope with anxiety or depression and minimize their impact on your life. First, acknowledge that the divorce itself leads to a natural grieving process that you must undergo. Accept your emotions as natural, no matter how overwhelming they are. Then, try to alleviate that stress by practicing relaxation and reflection techniques.

2. Stay Healthy—Maintain regular visits to your doctor. Sleep well and eat well. At your age, health is even more important. If you do not stay healthy, then both physical and emotional concerns can disrupt all aspects of your life.

3. Be Social—Without a partner, your social circle becomes even more important. Keep your friends close and interact with them regularly to avoid isolation. This socialization can go a long way toward improving your mood. Also, consider joining clubs or other organizations that will give you the opportunity to grow your social network.

4. Avoid Destructive Habits—You might be more susceptible to picking up bad habits after your divorce, including smoking, drinking, gambling, or using drugs. Avoid this kind of behavior at all costs, since engaging in these acts will only make it more difficult to move on with your life.

5. Seek Professional Guidance—A therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor can help you sort through your feelings after your divorce. These professionals can provide you with tips for how to deal with emotions such as anger and grief. 

6. Enter the Dating Scene—Being 50 or 60 does not mean you cannot start a new relationship, so you may want to give dating a try. It can help you get over your divorce, and it will also help you see that there is a romantic life after divorce.

7. Adopt a Pet—A pet might bring you the companionship you need to lift your spirits. Adopting a dog, for example, can give you new responsibilities and provide you with motivation on a daily basis.

Contact a Wheaton Divorce Lawyer

Divorce at a later age may present unique emotional challenges, but you do not have to let those feelings ruin your future. There is potential for great things after a gray divorce if you are willing to make an effort. The compassionate attorneys at Goostree Law Group will help you with the legal process of ending your marriage so you can focus on improving your psychological well-being. Call our knowledgeable and compassionate DuPage County family law attorneys at 630-634-5050 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:
https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2018-09-21/divorcing-after-50-how-gray-divorce-affects-your-health
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/stage-one-after-a-gray-di_b_9300280
https://www.forbes.com/sites/margueritacheng/2019/02/26/grey-divorce-its-reasons-its-implications/#6b3b9c6c4acd