How to Help a Friend Who is Going Through a Divorce

Divorce is a hard time for anyone. There are heavy emotions involved for all parties. Helping a friend through a divorce is not a simple task. Starting with the basics can help a lot though.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A friend who is going through a divorce

1. Provide support by listening. Sometimes the best way to help a friend during a troubling period is to just be there to listen. Letting your friend talk about the situation will be the best thing you can do.
2. Try not to get wrapped up in bashing your friend's ex. The reason? You never know what will happen in the future.
3. Pay attention to your friend's actions and not just their words. If your friend says, "I am ready to move on" but then shares gossip about their ex-spouse, your friend is definitely not moving on. This is normal and understandable, but as a friend, be ready to lend a shoulder; it may be needed.
4. Pay attention for any warning signs that your friend is sinking into a clinical depression or is possibly suicidal. Break ups are hard. Emotions can make people do things that seem out of character. Your friend may have been an emotional rock, but this break up may cause them to crumble.
5. Avoid contributing to any self-destructive behavior. Alcohol and drugs are easy distractions during this difficult time. What may once have been a social activity, can turn into a strong addiction.
6. Don't play matchmaker right away. More than likely, this will lead to a rebound relationship. These types of relationships aren't very therapeutic.
7. Leave the legal advice up to the attorneys. With divorces, you never know what will happen. All divorces have different circumstances that factor into the final decision of the judge. Bad advice can cost your friend false hope and a lot of money.
8. Remind your friend that he or she has good qualities. Times may be hard now but they will get better. Your friend needs little reminders of that.
9. Use a quote that will stick with your friend. A daily mantra like, "this too shall pass," will help with the healing process. It gives hope to a brighter future.