Divorce is a traumatic event. It violates trust and safety in a fundamental way. People can experience different levels of trauma during divorce, and some may have to undergo therapy to help heal.
Whether a divorce becomes traumatic will depend a great deal on the relationship you have with your ex-partner. The circumstances surrounding your separation will also pay a large part, as will any history of past trauma. Psychological trauma is an intense reaction to an overwhelming event, and it can manifest as many emotions including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Divorce can trigger these emotions and cause a roller coaster of feelings that are similar to those experienced by survivors of other types of traumas, including war veterans. For more information on Trauma informed training for the workplace, go to Tidal Training who offer Trauma informed training.
A divorce is stressful and might have elements of trauma; this doesn’t necessarily mean you have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The symptoms of PTSD are more severe and persistent. For example, if you’ve been exposed to a direct threat of violence during the course of your separation or have endured abuse from your spouse or partner, then your divorce might meet the criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD.
Regardless of how your divorce ends, it’s essential to take care of yourself during this difficult time. Create a calm safe space in your home where you can unwind and relax. This could be a chair or a corner of your bedroom, and it should be free from anything that might trigger you, like photos of your ex or divorce papers.