There is a grieving process at the end of most things, especially when the end of a relationship is involved. While this is a normal and healthy process, it can be overwhelming on top of all the other stressful things that come with divorce. There are five emotional stages to divorce and, just like most grieving processes, it’s not abnormal to skip a stage, repeat a stage or go through them out of order.
An experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney will help you navigate the process overall.
The following is a brief overview of what someone ending their marriage may be experiencing.
Denial
The first emotional stage most people start with is denial. Whether you expected your divorce or were shocked to learn of it, it is normal to experience denial at the changes that are going to come to your life. You may be looking forward to the changes that are coming but still feel like you are in denial that you will get to experience the life you are wanting. Many simply feel like they don’t truly believe their relationship is at a close.
Shock
The next emotional stage of divorce is one not everyone goes through, and that’s absolutely fine. Some people’s divorce comes at a shock or due to scandalous circumstances that can create a strong reaction that culminates in shock. Shock can show in many ways but the most common is a pervasive feeling of numbness. This can confuse a lot of people; why do they feel nothing during such a huge life event? However, shock is perfectly normal, and you shouldn’t get down on yourself if you go through even an extended period of numbness.
Bargaining
Another emotional stage that can come and go at any time throughout the divorce process is called bargaining. Bargaining can look many different ways but it commonly looks like a person say, “If this changes then I will promise to do this”. This can even just be an internal thought that you tell yourself or a prayer to a higher power. It’s a normal part of this process and while it can cause you some issues if you let it run away with you, it is nothing to be ashamed of.
Acceptance
The acceptance stage of divorce can bring both pain and a great deal of peace, however, you might go back through other stages again even when you get to acceptance. Acceptance can bring calm as you begin to look towards the future and accept the changes that have come into your life.
Moving On
Moving on is typically the last emotional stage of divorce but that doesn’t mean the other stages won’t make an appearance every once in and while. Moving on typically manifests in looking forward to the future with hope and even enjoying your current circumstances. Sometimes, this just looks like finding yourself content with where you are.
What You Feel Is Normal
While divorce can be emotionally draining and exhausting, know that what you feel is normal. Whether you are feeling denial, shock, bargaining, acceptance, or beginning to move on, what you are going through is nothing to be ashamed of. Many have experienced the same feelings. It’s important to be kind to yourself as you journey through the emotional stages of divorce.
Navigating your divorce begins with sound advice from people you trust. So hiring a trusted and reputable divorce lawyer or family law firm is paramount. Making sure you have appropriate legal representation from a family law firm will not only secure your rights and interests, but also get you through the divorce process with a sense of control and understanding.
Divorce and Family Law Services in Michigan
When going through a divorce, you want to make sure you understand each step of the process, and this is where a qualified attorney comes in. The divorce attorneys at Tower Karson in Livonia have the experience, knowledge, and compassion to ensure a positive outcome for all our clients.
Our divorce and family law firm addresses every case with an individualized, custom approach working to protect your rights and assets. Although a divorce is about ending a marriage, we are committed to help you start a new beginning. Call our divorce law firm in Livonia for a Free Consultation.