You likely use social media to engage with current events and news content, share information and connect with friends and family who do not live close to you. According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of people in the U.S. use social media in some form.
Even though social media is a helpful tool for entertainment and connection, you have to use it carefully during the divorce process. Otherwise, what you post online can negatively impact child custody, alimony and child support issues.
1. Change your passwords
You and your spouse may have shared passwords to your social media accounts before the divorce process ensued. Even if you do not think your spouse will use this access maliciously, change the passwords on all your profiles as soon as possible.
2. Vent your frustrations offline
Divorce can be frustrating, so you may desire to take your frustrations to the social media platforms you use. Instead of venting to your online community, find a close friend or a trusted family member to talk to during these periods of difficulty. You may also want to talk to a therapist who can help you navigate the emotional challenges of divorce.
3. Watch your tagged photos carefully
Keep a close eye on the photos people tag you in on your social media accounts. You may also want to disable tagging permissions until you finalize your divorce so pictures that portray your personal life do not stay up online.
4. Refrain from stalking your spouse
When you decide to get a divorce, you may fall into the habit of checking your spouse’s social media profiles to see what he or she is up to. Doing this can harm your emotional recovery and make it difficult for you to move on. Although it may be hard, stay off of your spouse’s profiles and focus on reinventing yourself.
