Let’s face it. Divorce is hard. When you’re going through a divorce, it seems like every day you’re on an emotional rollercoaster that you can’t get off. One day, you’re feeling sad, angry, or bitter. The next, you’re feeling lost or lonely. The Divorce Rollercoaster of Emotions is not something you want to go through alone, nor should you! There are divorce resources that can help.
Because so many of us have gone through a divorce, there are many divorce resources available that can help you get through the process with poise and maybe even leave you feeling hopeful of the future.
Family and Friends as a Divorce Resource
Now, you might think that relying on family or friends is a great resource, and while I’m sure they’re fine people, I can tell you that they may not always be the best option. Let me explain.
When it comes to having a shoulder to cry on or giving you endless love and support, the people you love can be a fantastic source of support. But they’re not always great at providing you with fully informed or unbiased advice. No matter how good a person’s intention is, they can still give you advice that’s uninformed and damaging.
You will need love and support along your journey, so friends and family are perfect for that. But when it comes to getting the best information and guidance for your divorce, objective professionals are the way to go.
Five More Divorce Resources to Consider
Here are five resources that you can take advantage of right now to help you get through your divorce:
Therapist
Divorce is mentally, physically, and emotionally draining, and a good therapist is one of the best divorce resources. They can talk through all of it with you. They can also help you get clear on the next phase in your life –setting goals and forming new, healthy relationships.
CDFA® or CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER PROFESSIONAL
Here is a great divorce resource when it comes to money. One of the biggest fears that people going through a divorce have is MONEY—it’s inevitable. Wondering, “What’s going to happen to me financially?” can be downright paralyzing! That’s why it’s essential to understand your financial standing before agreeing to any settlement. Financial Planners, especially ones who specialize in divorce, can help you with your financial projections, so you have one less thing to cause worry.
CDLP™ and Real Estate Professional
For most people going through a divorce, the single biggest asset is their home. There are numerous issues related to a home that can come up during a divorce, especially issues related to the home mortgage. A Certified Divorced Lending Professional can help you address those issues.
It may be helpful to work with a realtor that focuses specifically on working with divorcees. Divorce can create some unique issues when it comes to buying and selling homes. Divorce can also stir emotions and cause some individuals to act “out of character.” In such cases, it is helpful to have a seasoned professional so that the transaction doesn’t get derailed.
Non-Profit Organizations
When you think about divorce resources, non-profits probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. But no matter where you live, there is probably a non-profit in your community that offers divorce resources and support. In Texas, we have the Texas Legal Services Center. I recommend checking with your local community to see what’s available. Many local faith-based organizations have divorce care and recovery groups.
The Internet
It might seem obvious, but it is a huge divorce resource! Like it or not, divorce has become a big business, and every day you can find new information that’s helpful and free—blogs, articles, eBooks, forums, directories, etc. I know it seems like a lot, but don’t get overwhelmed –take your time and look into things that resonate with you.
Going through a divorce is both a confusing and challenging time in your life. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. And you don’t have to do it alone! Use the resources available to you to make wise, informed choices from the start.
While your divorce ends one chapter of your life, it also starts another. It’s up to you to make this chapter the best one yet. Today truly is the first day of the rest of your life!