Women and Separation (Booklet) - Relationships Australia

Separation andwomen’s experiencesSeparation and divorce are among the toughest experiences you willever have.Women report a range of intense feelings at various stages ofseparation, including feeling:• scared about the responsibility for the economic future ofthemselves and the children• sad about the break-up of the family unit• nervous about how they will juggle work and home commitments• resentful about career sacrifices they may have made in their role ofhomemaker• hateful towards their former partner• bitter about their new circumstances• worried about dealing with bureaucracies and the legal system• fearful of making the same mistakes in another relationship• concerned that the relationship with the former partner may remainin conflict• relief that things are out in the open.These responses, many painful and distressing, are perfectly normal.You probably have other feelings you can add to the list.The good news is that most women face these intense feelings and goon to live fulfilling and happy lives. The not-so-good news is that ittakes time.‘Separation provides the opportunity for personalgrowth, but you don’t have to go it alone.’F.L., aged 48, three years after separation3