Taking care of your health after divorce

Getting divorced is very stressful. It can turn your life upside down and have a significant impact on your financial situation.

In a 2018 Desjardins Insurance financial wellness survey of nearly 3,000 Canadians:

How can you minimize the consequences of divorce and maintain your financial empowerment, as well as your physical and mental health? Here are some tips to help you manage all the changes and get back on your feet again.

Preventing financial worry after divorce

Divorce is a highly emotional and stressful life event. Since it can also lead to financial worry, here are some tips to help you stay on track:

• Get your finances in order. Prepare a balance sheet that lists all your post-separation assets and liabilities.
• Assess your short- and medium-term needs. Draw up a budget based on your income and expenses.
• Separate your accounts. If you apply for a new credit card or open a new bank account, remember to provide your new credit card and banking information to any businesses or agencies that charge your card or make deposits to or withdrawals from your account.
• Start thinking about your will and make any necessary changes to the beneficiaries for your investments and insurance policies.
• Meet with a Desjardins representative Opens in a new window.Meet with a Desjardins representative. They can help you take stock of your financial situation, estimate the impacts of divorce and help you create a financial plan so you can stay financially stable.

Taking care of your mental health

Divorce can have a direct impact on your mental health.

You don’t need to go through it alone. Get the support you need:

• Talk about your feelings with people you trust
• Learn stress management techniques like relaxation or meditation
• Contact a support group or reach out to others who’ve been through divorce
• Make new friends by volunteering or joining a social or community club
• Wait until you’re back on your feet again to make big decisions like changing jobs or starting to date again

Taking care of your physical health

• Eat healthy External link. Opens in a new window. balanced meals
• Exercise every day to relieve stress and stay positive.
• Stick to a routine that includes relaxing and spending quality time with your loved ones

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