Hi I'm am facing loneliness and empty since my divorce. It's been 1 month from my separation.

Hi I'm am facing loneliness and empty since my divorce. It's been 1 month from my separation. I can't move on. I'm feeling depressed day by day. What can I do? In that case should I talk to doctor and if yes than can I be treated and start happy life again?
Asked by Kal
Answered
05/18/2022

Separation and divorce are significant life changes for anyone. Usually, the process of separating physically and emotionally from a person you have shared your life with is emotionally taxing and akin to someone dying. The difference between someone dying and the life change that comes with separation and divorce is that you are aware that the person you have been with is still around and you are both sad and feeling lonely without them.

This is true whether you are the person who initiated the separation from them or you are someone who has received news that your partner wants to separate.  Though there might have been valid reasons for a separation, it still may be quite painful. There is a tipping point for people on what will work and won't work in a relationship, and if it has gone too far in the pendulum swing toward not working, many people eventually leave, even if it is difficult.

The silver lining of separation is the opportunity for people to find themselves anew. When less attention can be spent on a partner, it is a good idea to concentrate on self-care and wellness. This can mean taking up disciplined habits both for the sake of health and to get your mind off the ex. For example, many people report going to the gym or taking up a sport.  Those are good habits to have anyway, but exercise is a primary way people cope with breakups.

Other disciplines or hobbies can include anything from gardening to reading to video games.  If something works to minimize the stress of a broken relationship, it is usually good to have in the tool box.  Creative hobbies are often helpful to take up during this time because the separation comes with an emotional energy that lends itself to art and craftsmanship.   For example, some people may notice that the taking up of music, art or writing creates a space for vulnerability in craft.

It almost goes without saying that sleep and nutrition are imperative to keep constant, even if anxiety makes either of them more challenging. If intrusive thinking becomes overwhelming, people may need to go to their doctor or psychiatrist to see if they can get something to mitigate the uncomfortable feelings. 

Typically during separation, people go through initial upheaval, then changes in how they related to their ex-partners, and then a path to how they seem themselves moving on. Though it is a stressful and challenging experience, the silver lining is that the process can evolve a person into a new level of development in which they are happier than they were before.