5 Proven Ways to Manage Anxiety After Divorce and Find Inner Peace

Divorce can bring overwhelming stress and anxiety, but you can find relief. Learn 5 effective ways to manage anxiety and regain control, including mindful breathing, setting routines, and journaling. Plus, download my free "Coping with Anxiety" workbook and explore video resources for extra support. Start your journey toward peace today!

EMOTIONAL RECOVERY

Grace Annan, LCSW-QS

9/19/20243 min read

Divorce is one of life's most stressful events, often triggering feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. The uncertainty of the future, financial concerns, and the emotional toll can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible. But here's the good news: managing anxiety after divorce is not only possible, but it's also key to finding inner peace and rebuilding your life.

I've been there. After my own divorce, I felt showered with anxiety at times, unsure of how to move forward. However, through research and personal experience, I found techniques that helped me calm my mind and regain control over my life.

In this article, I'm sharing five proven ways to manage anxiety after divorce and reclaim your peace of mind. These strategies will help you:

  • Calm your racing thoughts

  • Regain control over your emotions

  • Develop healthy coping mechanisms

  • Rebuild confidence in your ability to handle challenges

Let's dive into these anxiety-management techniques that have the potential to transform your life.

I remember the sleepless nights after my divorce, staring at the ceiling, my mind spinning with "what ifs" and fears of the unknown. The anxiety felt relentless. I was constantly worried about the future, my finances, and whether I could handle life as a single parent. It wasn't until I started using specific anxiety-management techniques that I finally began to feel some relief. Slowly, the heavy weight of anxiety started to lift, and I began to regain my sense of peace. Now, I want to share these techniques with you so you can experience the same transformation.


PRACTICE MINDFUL BREATHING


Mindful breathing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to manage anxiety. When you're feeling overwhelmed, your body's natural response is to tense up and take shallow breaths, which can increase feelings of anxiety. By practicing slow, deep breathing, you send a signal to your brain that it's safe to relax. Take 5 minutes a day to sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

For more techniques and strategies to cope with anxiety, watch my YouTube video here, where I dive deeper into how to calm your mind and regain control during stressful moments.


ESTABLISH A DAILY ROUTINE


After divorce, life can feel chaotic and unpredictable, which only fuels anxiety. Creating a simple daily routine helps restore a sense of control and stability in your life. Start by setting small, achievable goals each day—whether it's waking up at the same time, going for a morning walk, or setting aside time for self-care. Having a routine creates structure and allows your mind to relax, knowing that not everything is uncertain.


JOURNALING TO RELEASE STRESS


Journaling is an incredible tool for processing emotions and releasing the mental clutter that contributes to anxiety. By writing down your thoughts, fears, and feelings, you give yourself permission to acknowledge them without judgment. This process helps your brain sort through emotions and can bring clarity to otherwise overwhelming situations. Start by setting aside 10 minutes each day to write about whatever's on your mind.

Still trying to figure out where to begin? Download my free "Coping with Anxiety" workbook for guided prompts and exercises that will teach you how to release stress and calm your mind.

MOVE YOUR BODY TO RELEASE ANXIETY


Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to manage stress and anxiety. According to the American Heart Association, regular exercise—like brisk walking or moderate aerobic activity—improves your overall health and helps relieve tension and elevate your mood. Even short bursts of movement can have immediate benefits, helping you feel more calm and focused. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as a 30-minute walk five days a week. This will help release endorphins, reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), and improve your mental well-being.

Visit the American Heart Association's fitness guide for more on the benefits of physical activity and tips on getting started.

REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT


You don't have to navigate anxiety alone. Whether it's a trusted friend, a support group, or a therapist, having someone to talk to can make all the difference. Sometimes, just saying your fears out loud helps to diffuse them. If professional help feels out of reach, consider joining online communities or virtual support groups for divorced women. Having a network of people who understand what you're going through can be incredibly comforting.

One great place to start is right here, with Grace Blooming, where you'll find resources, tools, and encouragement tailored to women navigating life after divorce.

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Anxiety after divorce is normal, but it doesn't have to control your life. By incorporating these 5 proven techniques—mindful breathing, establishing a routine, journaling, physical movement, and seeking support—you can start to regain your inner peace and move forward with confidence. Remember, healing takes time, but every step you take toward managing your anxiety brings you closer to a happier, more peaceful life.

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Want more in-depth strategies for managing anxiety? Download my FREE "Coping with Anxiety" workbook and watch my "What To Do When Anxiety Hits" YouTube video.