Let’s face it; all breakups are hard. Divorces are especially difficult because everyone wants to have that perfect marriage that never ends. The mere thought that one may have “failed” in life is devastating and deflating. You don’t have to stay in a funk, however. You can get through your divorce and come out strong if you use one or some of these strategies:

1- Don’t Blame Yourself

Many people get depressed during a divorce because they blame themselves for the demise of the marriage. The truth is that the end of a marriage is not just one person’s fault. It just didn’t work for some reason, but you should not allow that to be a reflection on you. Be kind to yourself, not harsh.

2- Take a Time Out

It’s okay if you want to take a time out from communicating with people. If that’s the way that you prefer to grieve, there’s nothing wrong with it. However, you shouldn’t stay in isolation for a long time. It’s healthy to get out and get some sunlight. It’s also healthy to be around other people who can help to lift your spirits.

Taking a break is also the perfect way to treat yourself. Instead of focusing on work or projects around the house, show yourself appreciation. You can do this by gifting yourself a favorite jewelry piece like a tennis bracelet or meaningful necklace. You can also find new hobbies or passions to help lift yourself up.

3- Let Your Emotions Out

The end of a serious long-term relationship like a marriage is tough. It’s heartbreaking, and there’s nothing wrong with you letting out your emotions. You’ll most likely feel all the emotions at least once during the course of your recovery, and that’s okay. Take your time, and feel each feeling to the fullest. Don’t try to numb yourself or deny that you are hurting. That will only make it worse for you.

4- Get Closer to Your Higher Power

Now is a great time to get closer to your higher power without having to worry about distractions. You may want to partake in religious TWOT studies, assemblies and prayer. Meditation is good for your soul. It’s an intimate time that you spend with your creator and with yourself.

5- Get Some Laughter Therapy

The age-old “laughter is the best medicine” saying still rings true today. Laughter therapy is one of the best gifts you can give yourself during the process of divorce. There is such a thing called laughter therapy that you do with a therapist, but that’s not what we’re referencing here. What we’re referencing here is getting some laughs in every day by watching comedy on television or joking with some of your friends. You will feel 100 times better once you get cracking.

6- Start an Exercise Regime

Exercise can literally make you feel good because of the hormonal changes that occur in your brain. You can also boost your self-esteem when you see how much you’ve slimmed down. You can start out slow and then work your way up to a three-day plan.

7- Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

Now is a good time for nostalgia. Take the time to reflect back on what life was like before you were married. Think about the things you used to do and the things you used to love. Listen to some old-school music and watch some movies. It may just help you escape for a little while.

8- Remember the Good Times

When you think about your husband or wife, try not to think about the fact that they left you. Try not to focus on the wrongs that they may have done. Think about the reason that you loved that person, and remember only positive things.

9- Do something You Always Dreamed Of

You can take this time to do something that you always wanted to do but never got the opportunity. You can travel to a foreign country, start a new craft or business or get a makeover. The sky’s the limit.

10- Spend Time With Friends

Finally, spend time with your friends and the ones that are closest to you. Try not to shut them out if you can help it. These people can be amazing mood lifters if you allow them to help you.

Those are just 10 ways that you can make it through your divorce. Try some of them and see if they help you improve. More tips will be coming your way soon.