Divorces are emotionally taxing and stressful, even during the best of times.
You may already have a lawyer, a therapist, friends, and/or family members who are supporting you, but do not overlook the benefits of a divorce support group.
So, what is a divorce support group?
Divorce Support Group in Virginia
A divorce support group is a meeting of people who are going through (or have gone through) the divorce process. Individuals share their stories, express their emotions in a safe, neutral environment and receive support from the other members.
Often these groups are offered by churches or community centers. CGG is one of the only law firms in Northern Virginia that offers a divorce support group (with information below about how to participate). Joining one of these groups can have a significant positive impact on your emotional and mental well-being during your divorce.
Benefits of Divorce Support Group
There are several benefits of a divorce support group, including the following:
- While divorce support groups have traditionally been held in person, most (if not all) have moved to a virtual platform (at least for the time being). These platforms offer convenient options for people with busy schedules, transportation issues, etc.
- Some groups offer events that allow you to hear from professional counsellors, legal experts and/or financial advisors. These professionals will often offer general information about the divorce process.
- Divorce support groups encourage members to share their stories and offer solutions to problems presented by other members. This supportive community will listen to your concerns with an empathetic ear while also keeping you accountable for your actions.
- Most divorce support groups have a wealth of resources for people going through a divorce (such as referrals to legal and financial professionals, suggestions for relevant reading materials, ideas for parenting “apps,” etc.)
[Related: Child Custody and Visitation]
Types of Divorce Support Groups
After you decide to attend a support group, you need to choose which kind you will attend. Some groups are faith based. Others are gender specific.
Some groups focus on divorces where children are involved, while others are specific to victims of domestic abuse and/or divorces between seniors (“gray divorces”). There are also general groups with no specific target or demographic.
Support for Women
Divorce can wreak havoc on one’s self-esteem, particularly in women. Statistically speaking, women who get divorced face poverty more frequently than women who remain married or men who divorce. Furthermore, divorced women usually suffer a greater decrease in their income levels as compared with divorced men.
These stressors, combined with raising children under financial strain, can have a significant impact on a woman’s mental health. Some women who find themselves in these circumstances are more comfortable in a female-focused group. These support groups provide members with advice, support, and quite often a vote of confidence for women going through the divorce process.
Support for Men
Divorce support groups for men are fewer in number than all-female groups. Men often feel a sense of societal pressure to be “strong,” and to avoid being seen as overly sensitive and emotionally weak.
They may also have less emotional connections outside of the marriage, such that they find it difficult to experience “mental bolstering” from which they can benefit. That’s where a divorce support group comes in. A divorce support group is a great platform to help men connect with their emotions and effectively communicate with people in similar circumstances without fear of judgment or pressure.
[Related: How Divorce Impacts Your Business]
Co-Ed Support Groups
Co-ed groups do exist, and many people find them beneficial. It can be helpful to hear viewpoints of different genders when discussing the dynamics of marriage and divorce. Some women benefit from hearing a male point of view, and some men benefit from hearing a female point of view. In addition, sometimes participants feel more comfortable sharing and communicating with members of the opposite sex.
Facilitated Support Groups
If you do decide to join a support group, look for one that is facilitated by a professional. A trained facilitator can guide the meetings and ensure that they are productive and safe.
Divorce Support Group near Me
Are you ready to join a support group? Dr. Leah Nathan, CGG’s Divorce Coach, hosts a divorce support group (known as a support circle) every other Tuesday evening. If you are looking for support in a safe, neutral environment, please contact us today.