Divorce is never easy, and many divorced men in Orlando have trouble navigating the complexities of their new situation. This can be a deeply emotional time, and their shock and disbelief may turn to anger and resentment.
Understanding the seven stages of grief can help you as you seek to move past your divorce and move on with your life. Keep reading below to learn more about the seven stages of grief for divorced men and how you can get through them and come out the other side.
Stage #1: Denial
Most men initially go through a phase of denial when going through the divorce process. They do not want to admit that their marriage has failed, so they try to rationalize it or deny that it is happening altogether.
It can be extremely tough for them to accept the reality of their current situation. This stage of grief may also be accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety as they try to process what has happened.
Stage #2: Anger
Many men find themselves very angry, especially in the time immediately following a divorce. They may be very angry toward their ex-spouse, and they might even find themselves lashing out at others during this time.
Unfortunately, some men end up using unhealthy ways to cope with their anger. This could lead to drug or alcohol abuse or engaging in other types of reckless behavior. It is important to remember that this type of conduct could affect child custody decisions, so you should always consider the consequences of your actions.
During this phase, it is important that men find healthy alternatives for releasing their anger, such as working out or engaging in other physical activities. Allowing your anger to build up will only lead to more problems down the road.
Stage #3: Bargaining
After the anger and resentment subside, many men enter a period of bargaining. They may look for ways to undo the past and get back together with their ex-spouse. For instance, a man might say, “I’ll never drink again” if only they can convince their ex-spouse to get back together.
While this is a normal phase during a divorce, you must be careful not to get consumed by these thoughts. Staying stuck in the bargaining phase can prevent you from moving forward with your life and reaching true healing.
Stage #4: Depression
Depression is a stage that most divorced men go through. Men who are going through this stage may feel lonely and hopeless. This can be an extremely difficult time as they deal with feelings of inadequacy, powerlessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.
Unfortunately, some men might even deal with thoughts of suicide as they go through this stage of depression. It is crucial to have the support of family and friends to help you through your depression and find your worth.
Stage #5: Testing
After working through the previous stages, many men find themselves testing the waters of a new relationship. This phase might even seem exciting at first, especially if your marriage had been in a bad place for quite some time prior to your divorce.
Though this stage is normal, it is important that you do not jump into a new relationship too quickly. Make sure that you are taking time to process your feelings and all the things that have happened up to now.
Stage #6: Relapse
It can be easy to relapse and fall back into a depression, especially when your new relationship comes to a sudden end. You might start missing your ex-spouse and some of the things that you did together, or you could simply miss being in a relationship. It is not uncommon for men to go through the relapse stage multiple times.
Stage #7: Acceptance
Eventually, you come to terms with what happened in your life and reach acceptance. This is a very empowering stage, and it signals the fact that you are ready to move on with your life. You understand that you control what happens in your future, and you are ready to build something new for yourself while leaving your old life behind.
Contact Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC for a Free Consultation
While every man experiences divorce differently, understanding these seven stages of grief can help you recognize your emotions and remind you that healing is possible. With time, support, and guidance from Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
For more information, contact our experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, by calling (407) 831-0203 to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Orange County and its surrounding areas. Visit our office at:
Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC
815 N Magnolia Ave Suite 100
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 831-0203
