Getting divorced can certainly be an emotional process. Even if you are the one who filed for divorce, that does not make it easy.
Exactly what this emotional process looks like will depend on the specifics of your relationship. Someone in a high-conflict relationship may feel a sense of relief, for example. Below are a few common stages associated with divorce to keep in mind.
1. Initial shock
Often, starting the process of getting divorced can feel a bit shocking. Even if you have considered it before, everything suddenly feels real. This is happening. Life is changing. Of course, the shock can be greatest if you did not know your partner was thinking about divorce until they filed.
2. A blur of activity
The next few weeks will typically feel like a bit of a blur. There are many things you have to address, such as making financial disclosures or discussing child custody rights. You have conversations with family members and friends. You start to look into all of your legal options. It can feel a bit chaotic and overwhelming as you try to address numerous issues while your divorce moves forward.
3. The adjustment
At first, divorce can often lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety or even depression. But between three and six months, most people start to adjust. They get used to the new patterns in their lives. They start to see some of the advantages, such as not having to spend time around their partner and experiencing the stress that they previously created. People often start to feel like they are more in control as they settle into work routines or child custody schedules.
Navigating any of these stages of a divorce can be challenging, and it is important for people to understand exactly what legal rights they have and what steps to take.
