Important ways to look after yourself through family separation

Practical self care during relationship breakdown

Family separation ranks among life's most stressful experiences. While you navigate legal processes and emotional upheaval, looking after yourself is not selfish. It is essential for making clear decisions and supporting any children within the family unit effectively.

Building daily foundations

Sleep and nutrition often suffer first during separation stress. Simple routines help a great deal - consider regular meals, consistent sleep times, and gentle movement like walking. These foundations support your emotional resilience when everything feels uncertain.

Consider practical sleep improvements like limiting phone use before bed, keeping a notepad nearby for worrying thoughts, or asking your GP about sleep support if needed.

Creating your support network

Professional support provides guidance when you need it most. Consider connecting with a counsellor experienced in separation issues who can help you process emotions and develop coping strategies.

Your GP can discuss mental health support options and monitor how stress might be affecting your physical health.

A family dispute resolution practitioner offers neutral guidance through negotiations and helps you understand your options without taking sides.

Managing difficult emotions

Anger, grief, fear and relief often cycle unpredictably during separation. This emotional pattern is completely normal. Techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or going for walks can help when feelings surge.

Some people find it helpful to set aside specific times to think about separation issues rather than letting them dominate every moment.

Protecting your peace

Limit discussions about separation details to appropriate times and trusted people. Consider taking breaks from social media.

It's also okay to tell well meaning friends and family that you appreciate their concern but need some space from advice giving.

Moving forward 

While this period can feel endless, separation is a transition, not a permanent state. Many people report feeling stronger and more self aware after working through this very difficult period of time. 

Professional family dispute resolution can help you navigate this transition with dignity and move toward arrangements that work for your family's future.

Our experienced family dispute resolution practitioners across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Hobart provide confidential, supportive guidance during this challenging time. Mediation can be in person or online Australia wide. Mediation may be conducted in separate rooms whether in person or in an online setting. This is called shuttle mediation and is quite often the choice of separating partners.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice.