Many women often find themselves feeling isolated from their friends and family while going through a separation and divorce. It is not uncommon to find that you have only half the friends you thought you had because people feel they need to take sides. Unfortunately, this isn’t fair. But it is a reality. Another strange reality is the belief that divorce is contagious. According to Psychology Today when close friends marriages break-up, the odds of a marital split from others within the close circles increase by 75%.

So don’t take this isolation personally. Instead look at the bright side. Solitude in small doses can be healthy. It may help you reflect upon your current situation and connect with your inner self. This, in turn, can enable you to recharge and find your ultimate purpose.

But what about too much solitude?

Isolation, on the other hand, can lead to loneliness and depression. If I have learned anything from life, it is that people need people. We are not put on this planet to be completely independent. We need strong emotional support systems that will allow us to thrive in our quest for emotional and physical well-being.

There are things you can do to help you through this difficult time if you do not have many close friends or family. Take a class for personal growth, try yoga or an exercise class or volunteer in your community. Experiment with new activities that you enjoy and allow you to be open to meeting new people and making new friends.

Making a conscious effort to build new friendships can be emotional first-aid for this period of transition, and these new friendships may add significant benefits to your new life.

Also, if you aren’t already in counseling, consider finding a therapist now. A neutral party can guide you in your efforts to build a strong, healthy support system. It can also provide a safe environment for you to explore all your options and help to make your life more manageable.

Remember, you can’t take care of anyone else in your life unless you take care of yourself first.

Answers from AZ