Going through a divorce comes with a significant range of emotions. As you and your children navigate this challenging change, finding a new sense of normal can be difficult.
Both you and your children will need support as you learn how to cope with the new changes in your lives. Taking time to focus on your mental health is essential to the divorce process.
Here are a few tips for helping you recognize when you or your children need mental health support.
Supporting your children
All children will process a divorce in their own way. Some children will be clearly distraught, while others may try to hide their feelings. In addition to having open conversations with your children, you should also look for signs that they need help adapting to their new life, such as:
- Difficulty in school
- Significant personality shifts
- Changes in activities or interests
One of the challenges with children is that these changes could have nothing to do with your divorce and only indicate a genuine change in interests or coursework. You are an essential part of your child’s support team. When you notice changes, it is vital to assess your child’s mental health resources so that they are available if they need them.
Seeking support for yourself
As a parent, it can be easy to get so focused on your children that you forget to check in with yourself. When you neglect your mental health needs, it is more difficult to care for your children and their needs.
Going through a divorce can make it seem like you are on your own and that there is less time for your needs. However, it is crucial to recognize your own needs and get support from those around you.
