A divorce can be a tough experience for so many reasons, but one thing that can really affect your mental health after a divorce agreement has been finalized is what has happened to your social life. Many couples do things with other couples, and divorce can upend your entire social network. There are ways to rebuild a social life after a marriage ends though. A Monmouth divorce attorney can help guide you through the process.
What Should I Do Socially After My Divorce?
You can take a few steps after your divorce is complete to find out which people you want to associate with and what activities you can engage in in a healthy way. We suggest that you:
Evaluate your social groups: Some of the people you were around before are simply not going to be good influences or friends going forward. Make an honest assessment of the people you socialize with. Focus on reaching out to those who express empathy, and maybe take some time away from those who are emotionally draining.
Plan activities: When you know who you should reach out to, plan activities with them that can allow you to spend time together. You can talk about your recent life changes if you want to, or you can just enjoy a friend’s company. Making the conscious effort to reach out and avoid withdrawal from social situations is a must.
Try some new things: If there has always been something you wanted to try, do it now. You can find engaging new activities for you and your current friends, and you have the chance to meet new people and expand your social network.
Should I Pay Attention to My Ex’s Social Activities?
This is one of the worst things that you can do. Engaging in a “social arms race” is not healthy for you, and trying to one-up an ex at every turn is just going to use up valuable energy. If you have children, acting like this can also have adverse effects on their mental health.
Should I Still Be Social With Mutual Friends?
There are many friends that you and your former spouse share. It is fine to still want to keep your relationship with them. If you think that this is a healthy friendship and one that will serve you well going forward, you should continue to engage and make plans with friends you had before the divorce.
Just be aware of one thing. Constantly venting about your ex to these mutual friends is not a good idea. It is not good for you and your mental health, and you can bet that someone is not going to want to hang out with a person who spends much of their time together badmouthing a friend. You could end up burning bridges. Instead, talk to your therapist about these feelings or try writing them down in a journal.
Contact a Knowledgeable Divorce Attorney
If you are ready to start divorce proceedings, contact the Law Offices of George J. Mardinly. One of our experienced attorneys can guide you through this process and make it less stressful whenever possible.