If you’re like most people going through divorce, you already know how stressful it is. In fact, it’s tough before you even file – so even if you’re still in the planning stages, you’re probably experiencing a fair amount of stress.

So what can you do to make it easier on yourself?

Use these three tips to help yourself de-stress during divorce so you can focus and make better decisions.

3 Tips to Help You De-Stress During Divorce

Every divorce is different, and some are more stressful than others are. You can use these three tips to decompress and help yourself stay a little more centered during the process:

• Keep a journal.
• Get more than enough exercise.
• Talk to a therapist or counselor.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

Related: What are the legal stages of divorce in California?

#1. Keep a Journal.

Journaling is one of the most tried-and-true methods of decompressing during tough times. You don’t have to break out a quill pen and a leather-bound book to do it, either. You can create a private video journal using your phone or laptop, keep track of your thoughts on paper or digitally, or create a private blog that nobody sees but you.

A journal can do more than bust stress, too. It can help you create a record of events that could help your attorney. For example, if your ex was supposed to pick up your children and didn’t show up, you can put it in your journal – and when your lawyer needs a list of times and dates when things like that have happened, you have a source to refer back to.

The key is privacy, though. You don’t want to publicly share any information that could hurt your case or get in the way of what your lawyer is doing to preserve your rights during your divorce.

Related: 13 co-parenting rules to live by

#2. Get More Than Enough Exercise.

Exercise is good for both your body and your mind, and during divorce, it can give you tremendous benefits that you really need. Because exercise releases chemicals in your brain that can help you think more clearly and make you happier, now’s the perfect time to start. If you haven’t been much for exercise in the past, you can always start small – short walks every morning or evening are a great way to clear your head and boost your spirits.

You should always talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program to make sure it’s the right one for you.

Related: Types of divorce

#3. Talk to a Therapist or Counselor.

Sometimes the best way to work through the inevitable stress that divorce brings is to talk to someone outside your circle – an impartial counselor or therapist. A therapist can teach you new coping strategies, listen while you vent, and ensure that you have someone to talk to when you really need someone to listen.

Remember, too, that even if you’re not under a tremendous amount of stress or pressure, talking to a counselor can only help – so it may be a good idea to schedule an appointment with someone just to open the lines of communication with someone you can trust. Kids can benefit from talking to a counselor or therapist, too, so you may want to consider getting them help, too.

Your attorney can help you find a divorce counselor or therapist if you don’t already know one.

Related: Helping your kids deal with the effects of divorce

Are You Considering Divorce?

If you’re thinking about divorce, or if you’re ready to file or your spouse has already filed, we can help you start moving forward.

Call us right away at (209) 546-6870 or get in touch with a Stockton divorce attorney online to schedule a consultation today.