Divorce can be a harrowing experience, particularly for couples who have lived together for many years or have children. People who go through a divorce may feel like they have lost everything: their marriage, their home, their loved ones, and their friends. Losing friends after divorce can be particularly difficult because they are often the people you need most during this time of transition, but unfortunately, some friendships cannot withstand the strain.
This blog post will offer some advice about how to handle losing friends after divorce, including providing tips to help you move on from the experience.
Tips for Handling Losing Friends After Divorce
Divorce is never an easy experience, and losing friends can make it even more challenging. The following are a few tips that can help you better handle losing friends after your divorce:
- Understand that it’s common to lose some friends after a divorce. It’s important to acknowledge and accept that losing friends is a common and natural occurrence after a divorce. Some may feel like they must take sides, while others may not know how to support both parties. It’s also possible that one or both spouses may have developed close friendships with the same people or couples, and this could make the situation awkward for both sides. In any case, try to see losing friends as a part of the divorce process, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
- Accept that not all friendships are worth saving. While it’s natural to want to hold onto all your friends, it’s important to realize that not all friendships are worth saving. Some may not have been true friendships in the first place, while others may have become toxic over time. Take the opportunity to reflect on these friendships and decide which ones you want to keep investing in. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will help you heal and move forward.
- Make an effort to stay in touch with friends who matter. While losing friends is painful, it’s important to remember that some friends will remain loyal and supportive. Make an effort to stay in touch with these friends, even if it’s just a text message or a quick phone call. Social media can be a great tool for staying connected to friends who are far away, so take advantage of these platforms to keep in touch with your closest friends.
- Try to meet new people and make new friends. After a divorce, it’s important to start fresh and try to meet new people. This could be a great time to try new hobbies or activities that you’ve always been curious about. Joining a support group for divorced people could also be a great way to meet new friends and find a community of people who understand what you’re going through. Be open to new experiences and new people, and remember that there are plenty of opportunities out there to make new friends.
- Seek professional support if you need it. Finally, don’t be afraid to seek professional support. Losing friends after a divorce can be emotionally draining, and it can be challenging to navigate these difficult feelings alone. A therapist or counselor can provide you with the support and guidance you need to move forward and heal.
By taking the steps listed above, you can move forward and heal from the loss of friendships after divorce.
Contact Letterio & Haug, LLP at (845) 203-0997 or reach out to us online for a confidential consultation with our experienced family law attorneys. We have extensive knowledge about the divorce process in New York and can provide you with valuable information. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.