Reinventing Yourself After Divorce

As you come out of your post-divorce fog, it’s time to embrace change and find what makes you happy.   You may feel like you will never feel better and that you will never be able to move on.  This isn’t true, you will feel better, and you will move on and have a happy life. 

Here are 8 tips on how to reinvent yourself after divorce.

Ten Warning Signs Your Spouse Is A Substance Abuser

Have you noticed changes in your spouse, and not for the better?  Have a few drinks after work turned into days long benders?  Has their mood become more volatile?  These may be signs that your spouse is abusing drugs or alcohol.  Being married to an addict can cause chaos, stress, negativity and conflict.

The Effects Of Substance Abuse On A Marriage And Divorce

Marriage is full of peaks and valleys.  Anyone who has been married for a long time will tell you that there were good times and bad times throughout.  For a marriage to survive both spouses must contribute and work at the relationship, a one-sided marriage rarely lasts.  If one spouse is addicted to drugs or alcohol it throws the entire family into chaos and is difficult to sustain long-term.

Warning Signs Of Sexual Abuse In A Marriage

Is sexual assault in a marriage a real thing?  A healthy marriage involves sex, so how can married sex be assault?  According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 10 women have been sexual assaulted by an intimate partner.  Whether you are married or not, sex is consensual.  If you say no, it means no, even if it is to your spouse. 

Recognizing Financial Abuse In Marriage

Financial abuse is the most common form of relationship abuse but is probably the least acknowledged.  In a study conducted by the Centers of Financial Security they found that 99% of all domestic violence cases included financial abuse and yet it’s never talked about.  Financial abuse is in most situations, the first sign of abuse. 

Why Women Stay In An Abusive Relationship

Leaving an abusive relationship is extremely difficult.  For someone who has never experienced it they may question why a victim stays.  Abusive relationships are very complicated, it is not easy to just walk out.  In fact, a victim of abuse will usually attempt to leave seven times before they leave for good.  When they leave can be the most dangerous and volatile time for the victim.  Abuse is about power and control, by leaving the victim threatens the abuser’s hold over them and their life.  It is not uncommon for the abuser to retaliate in a dangerous and violent way.

Identifying Emotional Abuse

Relationship abuse can take many forms.  Physical abuse is easier to identify and the marks of it are obvious.  Just as destructive is emotional and verbal abuse.  Unlike bruises or broken bones, the damage is not as visible and attacks the victim’s self-esteem, confidence, and overall mental health.  This form of abuse is subtle in the beginning and escalates gradually with the victim not even realizing it.  Through words, actions and behaviors a spouse will slowly chip away at their victim’s self-esteem and independence.

Domestic Violence And Divorce In Florida

Many women who have been abused by their husbands are afraid to report the abuse out of fear of the violent repercussions from their spouse.  Unfortunately, these women stay in abusive marriages out of fear and feeling they have no where to go for help.  This puts their lives and the lives of their children in danger. 

How To Be Successful In Child Custody Proceedings

During a divorce, child custody can be the most stressful and emotional part.  Worrying about custody and time they will be with the other parent is overwhelming.  If it is a contentious divorce, it is easy to let feelings and anger rule your emotions and behavior.  When it comes to your children these emotions can sometimes get the better of you.  During custody proceedings it is imperative that you avoid destructive behavior that can damage your case.

Understanding Parenting Plans In Florida

Florida courts require a parenting plan in every divorce case with children.  Judges prefer seeing parents come to an agreement about the care of the children before coming to court.  However, it is not uncommon for parents to not be able to agree on parenting terms.  In this situation the court then establishes the parenting plan based on many factors but always with the goal of the best interest of the child.  It is in everyone’s best interest to have an agreed upon parenting plan to present to the judge.