This is the second part of a two-part blog discussing ideas aimed at supporting a person with coping with the distress which could be experienced while undergoing marital separation. The first part of this blog focused on the possible emotions that could arise during the process of separation, as well as how having someone to talk to about these emotions could support with providing a sense of connection, buffering feelings of loneliness, and adjusting to a new situation in life.
When going through a difficult and distressing period, looking after our physical health might not be the obvious focus or priority since we are typically coping with a number of other tasks or issues that are energy and time consuming. However, as with other situations that act as stressors or with major life changes, going through marital separation can cause a number of physical symptoms or changes in our level of physical health. Some examples of these changes could be frequent headaches, lower energy levels, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite or feeling physically unwell recurrently.
Set small and achievable goals for yourself aimed at slowly supporting yourself to think more about your physical health. These aims could include anything from drinking more water to going for a short walk, depending on what you believe would support you to improve your physical wellbeing. It would also be advisable to speak to your general practitioner should you be experiencing concerning difficulties with your physical health. Ample research shows that there is a strong link between our physical wellbeing and our mental wellbeing. Thus, in the same way that stress effects our physical health; taking care of our physical health could support us with coping better with our stress.
Rebecca Cassar is a Family Therapist practicing the Systemic Approach. She specializes in offering therapy to families, couples and individuals who are experiencing distress in their relationships. She can be contacted on rebecca@willingness.com.mt or call us on 79291817.