When your marriage is ending, it’s natural to ask “Why me?” But you are not alone in facing this difficult journey.

Despite a recent news story that showed the divorce rate leveling off, many experts still point to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 1996 projection:  nearly one in two first marriages will end in divorce. Statistics from as recently as 2009 validate this, with about 46 percent of couples failing to reach their 25^th wedding anniversary.

If you’re going through a divorce, this may not be entirely bad news. It points to a support structure of people who have “been there, done that.”

The first step is finding this network of support. Sometimes, family or friends who haven’t been down this road don’t know exactly what to say or how to help. Many times, “couple” friends pull back, unsure of which partner they should support.

So it might help to look to a new group of friends, a divorce blog  or even a formal support group. Finding a source of support not only helps you deal with the emotional aspects of divorce; it can also provide a resource for very practical and helpful information, including:

• How to handle children’s questions about visitation, custody and the future.
• What to look for in a lawyer, financial advisor or other experts.
• Tips for reentering the job market or adjusting your work schedule.
• Stories of inspiration.
• A variety of resources about everything from daycare options to recommendations on legal counsel and financial planning.

Remember:  You don’t walk alone. Fellow travelers on the journey can help.