Sometimes people get so caught up in the stressful details of divorce that they can’t see the forest for the trees. As if the decision to divorce wasn’t hard enough, when the process actually starts, there is even more to consider. With the help of their lawyer, individuals will have to make decisions regarding property division, possible alimony, and child custody and support, if children are involved. On top of that, they will have to deal with the personal implications of the split, such as difficult discussions with family and friends.
But let’s not forget the hope that divorce usually brings: a brighter and happier future. While divorce may have its fair share of negatives, the hope is that the overall result will be positive.
Divorce can lead to a feeling of empowerment and self-confidence. Once a person is out of a difficult relationship, they can start working toward that happiness and confidence they used to feel. This can lead to better emotional health and can even have a positive effect on physical health. According to a human behavior expert, there are little rings called telomeres around a person’s chromosomes. They fall off with age and also when a person is stressed. Making healthy lifestyle choices can lead to a restoration of these rings. Leaving a bad relationship can therefore lead to improved physical health.
The end of a marriage is also a good time to reflect and heal. This is the time when individuals can look back and learn from their experiences and allow themselves to see unhealthy patterns. This process may lead to a new, much healthier relationship down the line. This new relationship, as well as the growth a person experiences throughout the divorce, can also lead to positive lessons for any children involved.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Positive Outcomes of Divorce,” Dr. Gail Gross, Feb. 11, 2014