When two people decide to marry, they are promising a lifetime of commitment. This is not an impulsive decision and should be given careful consideration before taking the plunge. Unfortunately, even those with great intentions sometimes find themselves straying off course down the road and heading for divorce court. While many couples stay together to honor their original commitment despite feeling unhappy, others find the best decision is for the overall health, safety, and happiness of everyone involved to go their separate ways.
Going through a divorce can be an emotionally trying experience, but with the right preparation and understanding of each stage, navigating it successfully is achievable. Divorcing couples must journey through five distinct phases in order to reach resolution; making sure you are aware of them beforehand will aid you on your path towards closure.
Denial
When couples first face marital difficulties, they can often be in denial. This is when it becomes all too real and the news of a potential split hits home. The urge to keep up appearances may set in as partners attempt to shield their loved ones from what’s happening inside their relationship – giving an inaccurate illusion that everything is fine beneath the surface.
Anger
Divorce can often be a difficult and overwhelming process, marked by several distinct stages. One such stage is anger – when the reality of their separation begins to dawn on couples they may lash out at each other in hurtful ways as feelings of betrayal, frustration or disappointment set in. Unfortunately this destructive attitude towards one another could potentially lead to regrets later down the line.
Bargaining
Going through the third stage of a divorce can be difficult and emotional as couples come to terms with possibly going their separate ways. Bargaining is when they attempt to salvage what’s left in order to keep things together, while at the same time exploring potential paths for life apart if it doesn’t work out. It requires confronting tough questions that may seem impossible right now – but could ultimately become reality one day soon.
Depression
As couples come to terms with the reality of divorce, they visit a difficult stage full of complex emotions. It can be a frustrating blend that includes both grief and relief; sadness but also hope for newfound freedom. Adjusting to being single again is rarely an easy process and seeking support from family or friends during this time may help ease feelings of loneliness and despair.
Acceptance
After a long and difficult journey, couples entering the final stage of divorce have come to terms with no longer being together. As hard as it may still be at times, they are now looking towards new beginnings that will bring personal growth and joy. Although life after their marriage is different from what was once envisioned, acceptance offers an opportunity for true happiness in embracing independence again.