How to Get Through a Divorce While Quarantining Together
Navigating your way through the pandemic is hard enough as it is. There are only so many cakes you can bake, books you can read, and shows you can re-watch before you start to go a little crazy.
But if you’re also dealing with a divorce during COVID-19, and are stuck in the same home together, these challenges are multiplied. You may want your own space so you can process what’s happening. You may still be arguing regularly. Or it may be too close of quarters when you’re actively disliking each other.
Remember that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel in one way or another. Here are a few ways to get through quarantine when you’re stuck with your ex-spouse.
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Consider going to therapy.
Even though therapy is virtual these days, it’s still worth it to have someone to talk to outside of your home. It can be extremely taxing on your emotions to have to share the same space with someone you’re separating from. Talk through these feelings with a professional.
You can easily locate a psychiatrist or therapist in NYC who will help you get through both your divorce and the uncertainty of the pandemic. Never leave your mental health to chance, especially when you’re dealing with these hard issues. Support from a professional is always a good idea when you’re struggling with thoughts, feelings, and intense emotions.
Reach out to friends and family.
Even though you’re still living with your ex, it can be very lonely to live with him or her after the split. You likely can’t talk to each other because there are so many feelings involved. You could be mad at each other to the point of giving one another the full-on silent treatment, especially if one person was largely responsible for the breakup.
It’s more important than ever to reach out to your social circles. Have Zoom calls with your family, or meet friends in a park if you can do so safely. Try to talk to as many people as you can instead of bottling up what you’re going through. You may soon discover that you’re not the only one going through an extreme personal upheaval during the pandemic.
Do whatever it takes to stay healthy.
One of the best things you can do during the pandemic for your mental and physical health is exercise and eat a healthy diet. When you’re going through a divorce, you may not feel like doing either. You may only feel like sitting on the couch and eating junk food.
While that’s understandable, your mind and body will be so much better off if you can get outside every day for a run, walk, or bike ride. Do some peaceful yoga in a private space in your house. If possible try to prepare healthy meals that won’t make you feel like garbage (even more than you already do).
Get legal help.
Of course, an important part of the divorce process is finding the right divorce lawyer. While sometimes disputes can be resolved without a lengthy legal battle, you’ll want to work with a legal professional who can help you get the compensation you deserve, or who can simply help you amicably divide up assets and finalize the divorce. Find a divorce attorney in your area, and the entire process will move faster.
Living with your ex in quarantine while you’re going through a divorce sounds like a horror movie. But don’t let it get the best of you. Try out these strategies to maintain your mental and physical health, a requirement to stay afloat in today’s climate. And remember, it will end. You won’t be stuck in this situation forever.