They say that everyone is happier when the sun is out but sadly for some it isn’t always as simple as that. It’s an especially difficult time for those going through a relationship break-up which can often leave people feeling isolated and disheartened.
Adults who are experiencing relationship difficulties may have attempted to preserve the illusion that they were happy, perhaps over a summer holiday or a trip away. However, every day couples are facing the sad reality that their relationship is coming to an end.
At Blacks Solicitors we understand how difficult relationship breakdowns can be. As a result, Anna Rhodes from the Family Law team has devised some top tips to help you through this difficult time:
“This is perhaps the most important. Break-ups can leave you feeling sad, depressed, angry, confused, scared and alone. But it is important to acknowledge these feelings and not keep them bottled up. Do not be afraid to seek external assistance for emotional support at this very difficult time, such as a life coach, counsellor or therapist or through your GP. This can be very beneficial if you are struggling to come to terms with the divorce or separation. I often find that clients overlook the importance of obtaining this kind of support alongside the divorce process.”
“Splitting from your partner isn’t just about losing a romantic interest; you may also be losing your best friend. This can leave you feeling more alone than ever and the natural instinct is to be just that. But you need to remember that you have other friends and family, who will always be there to support you through these difficult times. It is important to confide in them about how you are feeling as they will want to support you.”
“It is vitally important to your physical and mental wellbeing that you keep yourself active after a break-up. Get out of the house, even if it is to just go for a walk, keep yourself busy at work and try a new activity you might not have considered doing before. Being active will provide a welcome distraction and will help you to focus your mind on other things. This may provide a sense of clarity which in turn will help you overcome the lows you have been feeling. One thing is for sure; you will not feel like this forever. You will have a different outlook on your life even just one year from now.”
“Suddenly being alone can be daunting but try and embrace your new found freedom by doing things that you enjoy, that you may previously have held back on to spend time with your partner. Whether that’s going back to an art class you gave up months ago, or re-joining your local book club, make sure you’re spending your time doing things for yourself, not for other people.”
“Look ahead at certain times in the year that you’re bound to find hardest. For example, the anniversary you got together or your ex-partner’s birthday, and make sure you book in some nice activities with your friends and family. If Christmas is going to be a struggle why not try and go abroad this year? Or spend it doing something different like volunteering at a homeless shelter. Making plans like these will help to keep your mind-set positive and help you through difficult times.”
If you find yourself faced with a complicated situation and need some advice, the family law team at Blacks Solicitors are happy to talk you through your options which will hopefully provide you with peace of mind and help you plan a way forward. If you would like to discuss any family law issues with Anna directly please email her on [email protected] or call her on 0113 227 9251. Alternatively you can contact them online www.LawBlacks.com with a call back promise within 4 hours. Anna and the rest of the family law team are members of Resolution, an organisation of family lawyers, mediators and other professionals who believe in a constructive, non-confrontational approach to dealing with family law matters.
