Find the Support You Need After a Life-Changing Event Undergoing a life-changing event, like divorce, is highly stressful. At times, it can feel like what you’re experiencing in this period of your life is how you’ll always feel, especially in regard to anxiety or depression. Sometimes, these challenges even spill over to your physical health, too. Know that you are not alone in this and that you will be okay. You just need to call in some backup. A counselor, therapist, or other professional will be there to listen and help you process what you’re experiencing. They will provide an unbiased, third-person perspective of what you’re going through. A therapist or counselor is not there to judge or give you instructions or advice: They are there to listen, ask questions, and help you gain the clarity you need. Especially if you suffer from depression, being able to process your emotions in a healthy way, like by talking to someone, might be the difference between recovering and doing more damage to yourself. The right professional will help you start this next part of your life and be there to guide you along the way. Mental health providers range from a variety of categories and specialties. You can choose from psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, the last of which typically specialize in a particular area, like managing stress or post-divorce counseling. As you take this step for yourself, remember: There is hope. As divorce attorney Chris Bruce reaffirms, “I can’t tell you enough how important that is for people. Seeing my clients once they realize there is hope for the future, and hope for a better future, makes all the difference.” Chris’ dedicated website, StayMarriedFlorida.com, has an extensive, vetted directory of mental health professionals in Florida listed by city and region. Chris has connected with each of these professionals to ensure they are the right fit for our clients. If you have any additional questions or could use further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here for you. During times like these, talking to a mental health professional can be especially helpful.
THE AGE OF STRESS
HELPING YOUR CHILD OVERCOME ANXIETY
It’s hard to imagine kids as anything but carefree, happy, and eager to explore the world around them. However, children experience stress just like adults do, which can severely impact their typically cheerful dispositions. Since April is National Stress Awareness Month, now is an opportune time to familiarize yourself with tools and information that can help you alleviate your child’s stress. WHAT ARE THEIR STRESSORS? Any number of everyday factors can lead to stress, and stress can plague anyone who feels overwhelmed. Toddlers and young children going to day care or school for the first time may experience separation anxiety due to being apart from their parents. Older kids and teenagers may feel mounting social and academic pressure. Even something as simple as overhearing loved ones arguing or seeing a sad news report can add to a child’s stress levels. HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS STRESSED? When a kid is stressed, they will exhibit odd behavior and even undergo physical changes. Depending on your child’s age, watch for mood swings, changes in sleep patterns, headaches, trouble focusing, or withdrawal from the people around them. According to KidsHealth.org, younger children may also pick up habits like twirling their hair or sucking their thumb, while older kids may start to bully others, lie, or rebel. CAN I HELP REDUCE THEIR STRESS? According to KidsHealth.org, good nutrition, proper rest, and healthy attention are great ways to help kids manage their stress. Set time aside each day to talk and spend time with your children; talking about worries will reduce or relieve anxieties. If you know about an upcoming stressful situation, like a school exam or a health checkup, prepare your child by studying with them or talking to them about what to expect.
Is your friend or client in need of a guide as they prepare for divorce? our divorce strategy book can help! The book can be downloaded for FREE at ControlYourDifficultDivorce.com. If your friend or client lives in the south Florida area, we will mail them a hard copy of the book upon request.
Don’t stop here. For more tools and information regarding stress reduction in children, visit KidsHealth.org or contact your doctor.
2 • BrucePA.com
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