7 Ways to Support a Friend Going Through a Divorce

Going through a divorce is an emotionally and mentally exhausting experience. Finding the right support system is essential to make it through this difficult time. If you have a friend or family member going through a divorce, you may be wondering what you can do to help. Thankfully, family solicitors North Wales are available to provide advice and support for those going through a divorce. However, it is also important to know how to offer more meaningful emotional support to someone going through a divorce. In this blog post, divorce solicitors llandudno discusses 7 ways to do just that.

1) Offer a shoulder to cry on

Divorce is a highly emotional time for anyone going through it. It can be hard to know what to say or do, but one of the most important things you can do is offer your support. Let them know that you are there if they need to talk and cry. Show them that they don’t have to feel embarrassed or ashamed to reach out to you.

It can also be helpful to encourage them to get professional help if they need it. Remind them that it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s important to find a way to express their emotions in a safe and healthy way. Offer to join them on counselling sessions if they are open to it, or provide them with a list of hotlines they can call in case they need someone to talk to.

2) Don’t take sides

Divorce is a difficult and complex situation for everyone involved, so it’s important to resist the temptation to take sides. Avoiding this urge can be difficult, particularly if you know one of the parties personally. Even if you’re close with one spouse, try to remain neutral and offer support to both. Divorce can cause some people to feel angry and lash out at their former partner. If a friend confides in you about their feelings toward their spouse, don’t get drawn into a mudslinging match. Instead, focus on being supportive and remind them of the importance of taking the high road.

3) Respect their privacy

It’s important to respect the privacy of your friend going through a divorce. They may not be ready to share their story with everyone and it’s important to understand that they need time and space to process what they’re going through. It’s also important to not pressure them into sharing their story with you or anyone else if they’re not comfortable. Encourage them to talk when they’re ready, and in the meantime let them know you’re there for them in whatever capacity they need.

Additionally, when it comes to social media, your friend may not want details of their divorce to be made public. Respect their wishes and don’t post anything without their permission. Show them that you understand that this is a private matter and that you’re there for them no matter what.

4) Be a good listener

One of the most important things you can do for your friend going through a divorce is to be a good listener. Divorce can be an incredibly lonely and isolating experience, and listening to someone’s worries, fears and anxieties can be a great comfort. Remember that it’s not about finding solutions; it’s about being present and available when they need you.

5) Don’t give your opinion

It’s natural to want to help a friend going through a difficult divorce. However, it’s important to remember that this is their journey and not yours. Offering unsolicited advice can often feel like you’re telling them what to do and how to live their life. Unless your friend has asked for your opinion, avoid giving them advice and instead, focus on being supportive.

It can be difficult not to offer up your thoughts, especially when you may have gone through a similar situation or know someone who has. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and not give any advice unless it is asked for. Instead, ask them questions about how they feel and what would be helpful for them. This will allow them to express their emotions and gain clarity on their own terms.

6) Help them stay positive

Divorce can be an emotionally draining experience for all involved, so it’s important to remind your friend to stay positive. Try to offer encouragement and be there for them when they’re feeling down. Encourage them to take time for themselves and indulge in activities that make them happy.

Remind them of the silver lining. Divorce can be a new beginning and a chance to start fresh. Help them look ahead and focus on the future, rather than dwelling on the past. It’s also important to remind them that they are not alone in this process—that many other people have gone through similar experiences and come out the other side stronger.

Finally, make sure to let them know how much you value and appreciate them. Showing your support and reminding them that you care is one of the most powerful ways to help someone stay positive during a difficult time like divorce.

7) Offer practical help

Divorce can be overwhelming and a person going through the process may not have the mental energy or the financial resources to tackle some of the necessary tasks. Offer to help with things such as taking care of paperwork, making phone calls, and organising documents. If they’re struggling to pay bills, provide assistance by paying for groceries, utilities, or medical bills if possible. Helping someone with practical tasks can make a huge difference during a stressful time.

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