Getting Through Your First Valentine's Day After Divorce

 Posted on February 14, 2018 in Divorce

Romantic holidays such as Valentine’s Day can be particularly rough for people who have recently divorced or are in the process of divorcing their spouses. More so than long-suffering singles, the holiday reminds you of the relationship you have just lost. Unfortunately, your loneliness may convince you to make poor decisions in an effort to create some romantic spark. There are healthy ways to avoid depression during your first Valentine’s Day after divorce.

What to Do

1. Celebrate with Your Kids: This Valentine’s Day, you can shift your focus from romantic relationships to your loving relationship with your children. Purchase them cards and candy. Plan a special, home-cooked meal with them.
2. Find Other Single Friends: You are not the only person feeling depressed on Valentine’s Day. Hang out with other single friends as you focus on activities that have nothing to do with romance.
3. Do Something Productive: Working on a project or volunteering for a good cause can take your mind off your loneliness. Afterwards, you will feel satisfied that you did something to help yourself or others.
4. Use Your Support System: If you are desperately lonely and unsure of what to do, ask for help. There are support groups for recent divorcees that understand how you are feeling and can give you advice.

What to Avoid

1. Contacting Your Ex: Do not let your loneliness cause you to second guess your decision to divorce. You already know that your relationship with your former spouse does not work. Trying to contact him or her will make it more difficult to move on from your marriage.
2. Seeking a Quick Fling: You should not find a date simply to avoid being alone on Valentine’s Day. A person you choose out of desperation is unlikely to become a long-term romantic partner. You are looking for someone to replace your ex-spouse for one night, which is unfair to the person you are dating.
3. Going to Romantic Spots: You know that couples will spend Valentine’s Day dining at nice restaurants and doing typical date activities. Seeing couples out enjoying themselves will heighten your loneliness. Avoid these romantic spots if possible.
4. Cutting Yourself Off: You have the right to spend Valentine’s Day alone, but understand that you are hurting yourself when you sink into self-pity. Do not ignore the people who reach out to you because they care about how you are feeling.

Life After Divorce

Moving on after your divorce is one of the most difficult times in your life. A Kane County divorce attorney at Goostree Law Group can help you obtain a divorce settlement that gives you some comfort. To schedule a free consultation, call 630-584-4800.

Source:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/juliet-jeske/life-after-divorce-surviv_b_1218009.html