Resources for Men and Fathers
It’s common to feel both relief and sadness after your divorce is finalized. Even if it was for the best, you may still feel the need to mourn the end of your marriage. While it’s perfectly normal to need that time to recover from your divorce, you also deserve to find moments of happiness in your day as you go through this period of intense emotions. You might not feel prepared to put yourself back out there yet, but eventually you’ll be ready to jump back into doing the things you loved pre-divorce.
If you’ve been putting career advancement, social engagements, and dating on hold, why not consider slowly reintroducing yourself to some of these passions and hobbies? Whether it’s been days, months, or years since your divorce was finalized, now is a great time to start the habits and activities that will help you find happiness again. We’ve compiled this list of resources to act as a jumping-off point as you begin your journey down this new life path toward contentment.
All About Happiness
What is true happiness, and how can we achieve it? These resources attempt to answer this difficult question.
Destigmatizing Therapy and Counseling
Men often feel as if they can’t express their true emotions during divorce because they are afraid of being seen as “weak.” This TED talk focuses on the lessons we’ve been taught as men and why it may be in our best interest to undo some of them.
If you feel that no one in your life understands what you’re going through, consider attending a meeting of Brad Micklin’s Divorce and Custody Support Group. This is a confidential place for divorcing and divorced men and fathers to discuss their legal concerns as well as the complicated thoughts and emotions they may be experiencing. You may even be able to meet new friends who are going through the same thing.
Additional Mental Health and Therapy Resources
Adjusting Your Outlook- Creating Goals and Setting Expectations
Did you know visualization is a research-backed method for imagining and achieving your goals? Visualizing your goals and future happiness can make you more confident, and it may also make it more likely for you to achieve these goals.
Healthy Co-Parenting
Divorced dads often struggle with co-parenting. Many have difficulty moving on when they’re forced to see their ex during custody exchanges and at their childrens’ events. Others simply wish their high-conflict co-parenting relationship could be easier for their own happiness and sanity. These resources can help you build a healthier relationship with your co-parent, which should make everyone happier – including your kids.
Creating Boundaries with A Narcissist Co-Parent
We know it’s not possible for every dad to have a peaceful relationship with his co-parent. Some high-conflict situations, like parenting your children with a narcissist, require a unique approach if you hope to maintain your happiness and your sanity. The following links are great resources for dealing with a high-conflict ex while keeping your relationship with your kids intact.
Physical and Mental Wellness After Divorce
Research shows a correlation between physical health, mental wellbeing, and longevity. Don’t underestimate the importance of your mental health. Positive mental health practices can decrease stress and symptoms of depression that could otherwise negatively affect your physical health.
Physical exercise can also produce endorphins and increase your physical functioning, leaving you feeling less sluggish and tired and more invigorated.