Managing Anxiety During Divorce Mediation

While mediation is designed to simplify a divorce, going through any marriage dissolution process can stir up powerful emotions. Whether you enter mediation knowing anxiety is something you struggle with or you’re caught off guard by the stress and emotional weight of the experience, you’re not alone. Many individuals are surprised by how intense divorce mediation can feel. The good news is an Orlando family lawyer can share with you ways to manage emotions during this important process.

5 Suggestions to Help You Stay Focused

The first step is acknowledging that anxiety during divorce is normal. You’re making life-changing decisions, about your home, your finances, and your parenting responsibilities, so it’s natural to feel overwhelmed.

For some, anxiety has been a long-standing challenge. For others, it emerges unexpectedly during the divorce process. Either way, those feelings are valid.

• Tip #1: Prepare, but don’t obsess. One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to walk into mediation prepared. Understanding your goals, knowing your rights, and having a clear idea of your priorities can help you feel more in control. But don’t spend every hour beforehand replaying every possible scenario. Over-preparing can increase anxiety instead of calming it. Trust your attorney and the structure of the mediation process to help guide the conversation.
• Tip #2: Breathe and take breaks. It sounds simple, but deep, mindful breathing really works. Practicing a few slow, steady breaths can help ground you and interrupt the cycle of racing thoughts. If emotions start to run high during mediation, ask for a short break. Stepping out to collect your thoughts and calm your body can make a big difference in your ability to stay focused.
• Tip #3: Lean on your team. Your attorney is not just there to advocate for your legal rights, they’re also there to support your peace of mind. Additionally, consider working with a therapist or counselor who can help you process the emotional side of divorce and offer tools to manage stress and anxiety.
• Tip #4: Focus on your larger goals. It’s easy to get caught up in small disagreements during mediation, but try to keep your eye on the big picture. Re-centering on your long-term goals (peace, stability, and moving forward) can help you make more thoughtful decisions.
• Tip #5: Take care of yourself between sessions. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a yoga class, a good meal, or simply time with supportive friends or family, nurturing your body and mind outside of mediation sessions will better prepare you to face the next one with clarity and calm.

Divorce mediation can be emotionally intense, but with the right strategies and support, it’s entirely possible to manage anxiety and stay in control of the process.

Reach Out and Connect with the Support You Need

Was it surprising to you when you began feeling anxious? If you’re facing divorce in Orlando, the family law attorneys at Donna Hung are here to walk you through it, with compassion and clarity. Call 407-999-0099 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.