No one ever says, “I do,” expecting the marriage to end in divorce. Even if you and your wife agree to part ways amicably and schedule an online divorce in NJ, you may both struggle to deal with the emotions and life changes the rift causes.

As a man, you may not express feelings of sadness as readily or outwardly as your ex-wife. That doesn’t mean you don’t experience the tumult, though. Here’s more about why knowing how to cope with divorce as a man can help you move forward and embrace the next phase. 

Healthy Ways to Deal With the End of Your Marriage 

Men often believe they must present an image of confidence and strength, even under intense sadness, grief, and loss. However, ignoring and repressing these feelings hurts you. The following ideas can help: 

#1 Create a Support System After Divorce

Surrounding yourself with supportive and encouraging friends and family helps you manage your feelings about the divorce. People who let you wallow in self-pity or remind you of your ex-spouse aren’t helpful. Focus on those who can provide emotional support and help you get back on your feet. 

#2 Allow Yourself to Grieve As Needed During and After Divorce

Grief is a process, and the stages are not linear. You may go through different periods of denial, bargaining, anger, depression, and acceptance, and that’s okay. Give yourself permission to feel, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help, especially with ongoing or worsening depression.

#3 Focus on Your Health 

As you cope with divorce, it’s easy to fall into destructive behaviors. Make yourself a priority by focusing on activities that support your physical and mental well-being. Exercising, eating right, getting plenty of sleep, and limiting alcohol are a great start.

#4 Maintain a Relationship With Your Children 

One of the most difficult aspects of learning how to cope with divorce as a man is navigating the new relationship with your children. How often will you see them? Not seeing your kids as often as you’d like can only make you feel worse, which is why mental health professionals’ best tips for divorcing parents include: 

• Stay connected to your children post-divorce.
• Avoid behaviors or words that could cause long-term emotional damage, like badmouthing their mother or fighting with her in front of them. 

#5 Take Time With New Relationships 

Before dating after a divorce, it’s also important to give yourself time to mentally process the end of your marriage and heal. Avoid jumping into a new relationship, especially before the divorce is final. Caution and intentionality about dating smooth the transition into a meaningful relationship. 

Get Help From The Divorce Center 

If you want to avoid an extended divorce battle, call The Divorce Center at (800) 414-0333 in New York or (800) 762-3111 in New Jersey. While you learn how to cope with divorce as a man or getting a divorce as a parent, our team makes the process as streamlined as possible.