Dealing with DIVORCE

The end of what you might've believed was a lifetime bond can be traumatic and stressful. How do you deal with the emotions and move forward?

- GLYNIS HORNING

Four in 10 marriages in South Africa end in divorce before their 10th anniversary, according to Statistics SA. Figures released in 2023 show that these numbers are on the rise, infidelity being the leading cause, reports Divorcelaws.co.za. "The betrayal of trust is often so severe that it leaves the marital relationship beyond repair, leading to its dissolution. Abuse, be it physical, emotional or psychological, is an unequivocal deal-breaker in any relationship." However broken you may feel, it is possible to reboot, pick yourself up and move forward.

1 ALLOW YOURSELF TO GRIEVE

Divorce hurts, no matter the part you played in it. Emotions of anger, guilt, failure and sorrow over the loss of a relationship, and the hopes and dreams it offered, can be overwhelming, says Joburg counselling psychologist Karin Steyn. Acknowledge your emotions and find non-destructive ways to channel them, from journalling or jogging to playing loud music or video games. The road to acceptance may seem steep and long, but you can get there.