If you are thinking about getting a divorce or have already made up your mind, strong emotions are likely crowding out thoughts on many issues that will result. That’s not unusual as coming to terms can be difficult even when you know it’s for the best.
It’s crucial to try to put aside those feelings early on and assess what divorce will mean for your future and your family’s. Ending a marriage can be complicated but it’s crucial to be prepared for the positive as well as the potentially negative repercussions. Here are three issues to consider.
Children
Kids can develop emotional and psychological difficulties when their parents divorce. But divorce can also create a more stable and peaceful environment. Parents should always put their children’s needs first, never use them to get back at the other parent and be honest about why the divorce happened without over-sharing details.
Finances
Unless you have considerable assets, divorce is likely to create financial challenges for one or both spouses. Turning to experienced legal guidance can help you understand how marital assets and debt are divided, how child support is determined and whether spousal support applies to your situation.
Stress
Divorce is stressful, but so is being in an unhappy marriage. Some people struggle with depression, anger and other mental health issues. Turning to family or close friends for support or seeing a professional therapist can help you deal with these issues to move on to the next stage of your life.
Set a goal to thrive, not just survive
While divorce is challenging, it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and a brighter future for everyone. Gone is the social stigma that forced many couples to remain married only for the sake of their children or because they feared what others would think.
The key to starting your new life on the best footing possible is understanding the issues you’ll face and the options, rights and responsibilities accordingly. Preparation won’t erase the intense emotions you feel about the past but can help reduce or alleviate much of the uncertainty over the future.