Searching for resources to help with emotions during the divorce process can be overwhelming. It has been noted that journaling can be a therapeutic tool in addition to counseling, establishing a support system as well as other resource tools.Divorce evokes many emotions as people face the reality that their marriage is over while separation and divorce occurs. Emotions associated with all of these changes should be explored and worked through in order to move forward in a more positive manner. How one chooses to effectively handle their emotions is important to one’s overall mental and physical well-being. Divorce requires many decisions to be made and acceptance of the marital and family relationship changes.
Journaling is an effective resource which uses the art of writing. It helps to explore, identify and process thoughts and feelings surrounding events such as marital and family relationship changes. Below are a few therapeutic examples of journaling:
JOURNALING HELPS TO IDENTIFY FEELINGS
There are many decisions to be made during the divorce process so it is a good idea to find tools to help you identify thoughts and feelings that are experienced through the process. Once emotions are identified, then clarity may be gained to assist further as needs and goals are identified for your divorce so decisions can be made effectively to enhance not diminish you post-divorce life.
JOURNALING CAN REDUCE ANXIETY AND STRESS
It may lessen anxiety and stress when appropriate time is taken to write thoughts and process your feelings surrounding them. Often times, when there are many changes occurring at once, it is difficult to separate thoughts, emotions, and facts. Writing about hurts, fears, anger and disappointments surrounding your personal and family life helps to release the intensity of the feelings. Writing is often considered therapeutic as it allows emotions to be processed in a more healthy and manageable manner.PROBLEM SOLVING THROUGH JOURNALING
When writing about different decisions that must be made and brain storming different possible solutions for each will allow for problem solving. Writing the problem and listing options for each allows for exploration of solutions and this may aid when offering negotiations and proposals to your ex- spouse.INCLUDE WRITING IN YOUR DAILY LIFE
Many become an avid writer once they experience the benefits of having the ability to express thoughts and feelings without the fear of being judged by anyone else. Pencil in your calendar a time each day that is free of interruption to focus on writing. When all thoughts have been written, make sure to store your journal in a safe location for your eyes only. Your thoughts are personal, private and shouldn’t be used against you should your journal be found by your ex-spouse.
Enjoy the benefits of therapeutic journaling as it helps to identify feelings, reduce anxiety and problem solve during the divorce process. Make sure that your daily calendar allows for sufficient time to utilize this resource so that it becomes a daily habit.
Divorce Tool Box understands the myriad of decisions that must be made during divorce as well as questions of how to get started the correct way. Click here to learn more about Divorce Tool Box and how it works.