After getting a divorce, it may feel like you are living a completely different life. As you work on creating a new life for yourself, you may experience feelings of depression, sadness and hopelessness.
These feelings are normal, and the Anxiety & Depression Association of America estimates that in the U.S., Major Depressive Disorder affects 16.1 million adults. Although it can take time to transition from this major life change, there are steps you can take to reinvent yourself after divorce.
1. Work through your emotions
While you may want to repress your emotions and pretend you are fine, this will only limit the emotional recovery process. Allow yourself to feel the emotions you are experiencing and consider consulting with a counselor or a therapist.
2. Invest in your physical and mental health
Make yourself a priority after your divorce by eating a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep and getting regular exercise. Try not to rely on drugs and alcohol to cope with your emotions. Avoid making any major decisions at this time and try to stick to a normal daily routine as much as possible.
3. Try something new
The period after your divorce is a good time to explore new interests and passions. Whether you go back to school or take up a new hobby, choose an activity that you enjoy.
Healing from divorce and feeling like life has returned to normal may take some time. While a full recovery will not happen overnight, taking care of yourself, trying new activities and coping with your emotions can help you move forward.