A divorce is always painful because it marks the end of the relationship you thought would last for a lifetime. Complexities like division of assets, alimony, and child custody and support can make things more challenging. But nothing gets more daunting than a nasty divorce when one partner tries to hurt the other emotionally and financially. The situation can affect your mental health and sanity more than you imagine. You must take relevant measures to safeguard yourself, your finances, and your children if you do not foresee an amicable settlement. Here are some survival tips to stay sane during a nasty divorce.
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Decide on what you want
Whether a divorce is nasty or amicable, clarity puts you in a good place. Decide on what you want and what you are ready to let go of. You may have to fight a long battle for child custody during a painful divorce, but knowing that you want your kids to gives you strength. Likewise, stand for your right in finances and joint assets because you have an equal share. If you plan to raise the kids alone, fight for child support.
Stay with your kids
When constant stress seems to take a toll on your sanity, moving out looks like a good option. But going too soon can impact child custody later. Legal experts recommend staying in the family home with your kids. You can minimize friction by avoiding confrontation with your abusive spouse until divorce and custody issues are resolved. Also, do not let your partner take the kids along if they leave.
Understand how far things may go
Being mentally ready for a nasty situation boils down to understanding how far things may go. It prepares you for the worst and keeps your sanity intact in unexpected situations. You can read about some sneaky divorce tactics to plan ahead. Your partner may try spying on you, concealing assets, destroying common properties, and influencing the kids. Hiring a seasoned lawyer keeps you a step ahead of these tactics.
Safeguard documents
Once you get into a divorce proceeding, you must realize that your relationship with your spouse is only business. Keep hold of your emotions and follow a practical checklist to secure your finances. Safeguarding your personal and financial documents is essential. Start by collecting personal documents like your passport, birth certificate, diplomas, and professional licenses. Also, make a copy of jointly-owned records such as bank statements, real estate records, deeds, titles, and tax returns. Store the documents and copies in a safe location.
Build a support system
A nasty divorce can stress you out, and you need help and assurance throughout the proceedings. Building a support system can save your sanity and keep you afloat. Your parents, siblings, friends, and neighbors can help in more than one way. You may need financial aid, someone to look after the kids while you attend court hearings or even a person to listen to you. Discuss the situation with your boss and trusted co-workers to seek support at work.
Maintaining your sanity amid a nasty divorce can be hard, but it is possible if you take the right approach. Follow these steps to cruise through the crisis.
