Divorce brings up a lot of emotions, including hurt, frustration and anger. Most people have a tough time dealing with these divorce-related emotions because they all come on at once; it’s a virtual flood of difficult feelings, and many people are overwhelmed by them.
While anger is a normal human reaction, it can be difficult to manage under an onslaught of other emotions. If you feel like you’re losing control, ask your North York divorce lawyer if he or she knows a local counsellor or therapist who specializes in working with people during divorce. You might find that talking to an impartial third party makes a significant difference in the way you feel.
Managing Anger on Your Own
Your North Yorkdivorce lawyer may have suggested that you start a journal during your divorce. Not only is journaling a helpful outlet for your anger; it’s a written record of everything that’s making you angry. You and your North York divorce lawyer can use your journal to keep track of any missteps or misbehavior your ex may exhibit during your divorce.
There are several other things you can do to help alleviate stress and melt your anger away, including:
- Exercise. Cardiovascular exercise releases endorphins, which are also known as “feel-good” chemicals. On top of the mental benefits, you’ll reap physical rewards, too.
- Talk to a friend or impartial third party. Letting someone else hear your frustrations and validate your feelings can lift that weight off your shoulders. If you’re not comfortable talking to friends and family about your anger, ask your North York divorce lawyer for a referral to a local professional.
- Take time for yourself. When you feel yourself getting angry—or if you know you’ll get angry soon, like when you’re scheduled to talk to your ex—take a few minutes to relax. Slip into a hot bath, read a book or take your anger out on a pile of laundry (folding those shirts can be therapeutic).
Why You Need to Control Your Anger
Your North York divorce lawyer will be the first to tell you that it’s easy to get caught up in your anger—but it can have undesirable effects. When people are angry, they make poor decisions. Angry people also inadvertently cause others to make poor decisions; for example, yelling at your ex will probably tempt him or her do the exact opposite of what you want.
Anger is a perfectly normal human reaction, and during divorce, it’s often justified. However, keeping your anger in check is vital to getting (and keeping) the upper hand.
