Denial And Anger? You Could Be Experiencing The Five Stages Of Divorce

If you're in the midst of a divorce, you might experience a host of confusing emotions, including denial and anger. Denial and anger are stages of divorce many people experience at the ends of their marriages. Although each stage of divorce is difficult, you can eventually navigate your way through them. Learn more about the five stages of divorce and how to find your way through them below.

What Stages of Divorce Are You Going Through?

Divorce isn't a simple choice for many couples. Some couples divorce because they no longer have the same goals in life while other couples choose divorce as a way to move forward in life. No matter why you or your spouse choose to end your marriage, divorce can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Like grief, divorce occurs in five stages. Denial is the first and most crucial stage of divorce because of how it affects you personally. If your spouse is the one ending your marriage, you may deny that there's a problem in your relationship. You may even try to convince your spouse that divorce is the wrong path to take and there are ways to save your marriage. If your spouse doesn't agree with you, your denial may lead to anger, depression, and guilt. These emotions represent the second stage of divorce. The last three stages of divorce include acceptance, forgiveness, and self-esteem (or self-worth). Some individuals experience all five stages of divorce, while other adults may only go through a few. Knowing how to navigate your way through each stage you experience can help you move forward with your life.

Who Can You Talk to About Your Divorce Problems?

If you can't find a way to accept your divorce, reach out to a family law attorney. An attorney who works with divorcing couples or individuals can walk you through your divorce one step at a time. This is especially important if your spouse wants to obtain joint custody of your children or take half of your assets. The problems above can increase the anger and animosity you feel for the divorcing spouse. Unless you learn how to overcome your emotions, you may place your bid to obtain full custody of your children and assets at risk. A divorce attorney may also provide you a way to obtain counseling. Divorce counseling allows you to work through each stage of divorce in private. A counselor may work closely with a divorce attorney until your case concludes. If you don't feel comfortable attending counseling, tell a lawyer immediately. There may be other ways you can work through the stages of divorce.

For more details about the stages of divorce, contact a family law attorney.

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