Separating can be like bereavement or any other loss. After the initial shock, you start on a journey which takes you through a cycle of emotions.
The stages of this journey typically go from denial through to anger, emptiness, depression and acceptance, until you can start to move on. It’s very common to revisit the same stages or emotions more than once. This is often how your mind comes to terms with what’s happened.
It can really help to acknowledge your separation as a loss – for you, the partner you’re separating from and your family. It can also help if you understand what stage in the loss journey you’re at.