Navigating Divorce

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in divorce rates by over 35%.

Researchers say that the COVID-19 quarantine caused marriages to fall apart within weeks. The number of couples who wished to separate during quarantine increased by 57 percent!

Newlyweds were hit the hardest by the pandemic. Researchers found that close to 60 percent of couples pursuing divorce during the pandemic were married for five years or less, which is a significant 16 percent increase from 2019. This suggests that newlyweds are less equipped to handle the emotional, financial, and familial stresses associated with the pandemic than more mature couples who have been married for a longer period.

Let’s state the facts: some people thought they had the perfect relationship or marriage, then the unthinkable happened – disagreements about the severity of COVID-19, disagreements over the COVID-19 vaccine, parenting-related disagreements while kids were homeschooled, job loss, financial worries, lack of work-life balance, lack of personal space, too much time together, discovering your partner’s true self leading to the disappearance of the initial sparkle, dealing with grief from losing loved ones, political differences, depression from losing touch with oneself and friends due to isolation, getting sick, and worrying about mortality.

So, now that all these people have gotten divorced or are going through the process of the pandemic divorce trend, what’s next? How do they start over?

Divorce can be a challenging and life-altering experience, often leaving individuals feeling isolated and in need of support. In this blog, we will explore the process of rebuilding your life after divorce, with a specific focus on making new friends. We will discuss the emotional aspects of divorce, strategies for healing, and practical tips for forming meaningful connections with others.

Acknowledge and process your emotions: navigating divorce

Divorce can bring forth a range of emotions, including grief, anger, and sadness. It is important to give yourself time and space to acknowledge and process these feelings. Consider seeking professional support through therapy or counseling to help navigate this emotional journey.

Rediscover yourself:

Divorce provides an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Take this time to reconnect with your interests, hobbies, passions, and values. Engaging in activities that bring you joy can help you regain confidence and attract like-minded individuals.

Seek support groups:

Joining support groups specifically tailored for individuals going through divorce can be immensely helpful. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and form connections with people who understand what you’re going through.

Expand your social circle:

Consider expanding your social circle by joining clubs, organizations, or community events that align with your interests. Engaging in activities you enjoy can help you meet new people and potentially form friendships based on shared hobbies or passions.

Utilize online platforms:

In today’s digital age, online platforms can be a valuable resource for connecting with others. Explore squads, groups, forums, or online communities that focus on divorce support or making new friends. Engaging in these platforms can provide a sense of belonging and the opportunity to connect with individuals who have similar experiences.

I would definitely stay off romance apps until you’re fully ready. This could be emotionally and mentally disastrous, trust me. Friends first and loving yourself again is key!

Be patient and open-minded:

Building new friendships takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate this process. Approach new social interactions with an open mind, embracing diversity and different perspectives. navigating divorce

Divorce can be a challenging chapter in life, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and new beginnings. By acknowledging and processing your emotions, rediscovering yourself, seeking support, expanding your social circle, and utilizing online platforms, you can embark on a journey of healing and connection. Remember, building new friendships takes time, so be patient, be yourself, and focus on fostering genuine connections. navigating divorce