Our Family Law Solicitor Jayne Howarth talks about her advice on the importance of “self-care” to navigate the emotional roller coaster of a Family Law property settlement and/ or parenting matter:
This week, I met a client who had recently separated from their spouse. The client had been in a long marriage and had a number of young children. At this early stage, the client was seeking advice on options on how to achieve a formal resolution of both parenting and property. For me, whilst working on an action plan to navigate these issues are important, at this early stage, what is more important is the client focusing on self-care. It cannot be overlooked that separation is a difficult stage of life to navigate, and there is associated feelings of grief, loss and anger. Making decisions whilst grievous can result in poor choices being made due to heightened emotions.
This is why it is important to focus on self-care, giving yourself time to process separation and the feelings attached to this process. For this client, I suggested engaging with a counsellor or psychologist, engaging in exercise (like yoga or pilates) and/or meditation, journaling, and pursuing a hobby that had previously made them happy, such as reading. Ultimately, whilst resolving any family law dispute is the ultimate gaol, it is also important that clients focus on their self-care along the way, so that when the matter concludes, they are able to move on with their lives, exiting their family law matter perhaps as a different person with a different perspective on life.
If you or someone you know needs Family Law advice from a Solicitor who is empathetic and approaches the world of Family Law in a holistic light contact Jayne today on 02 4627 3333.
This article was published on 24/08/23 and the information is valid only to the date of publishing. This article should be considered merely general and non-specific on the subject matter and is not and should not be considered or relied on as legal, advice. Meehans Solicitors is not responsible in the event this information is relied upon by the reader in the absence of specific legal advice.