The most crucial thing to remember is that if you’re struggling, talk to someone. It could be a friend, family member, a trusted colleague or a mental health support service like the Samaritans (call 116 123).

Another useful contact is Relate, which provides help and support with relationships, including counselling and telephone support. It even has a Christmas sanctuary hub, full of advice and ways to access support throughout the festive season.

Here are some tips which may help you navigate your first post-divorce Christmas:

If old traditions make you sad, invent new ones

Christmas can be very heavy on tradition, but there are no rules that say you have to do the same things with the same people every year. If there’s a tradition you used to share with your ex-partner, it’s only natural to have sad, angry or mixed feelings about it.

So this year, why not scrap that tradition in favour of a whole new one? Doing something different could be just what you need, and it can be fun! It’s your Christmas, so you can do exactly as you please.

Remember that there’s no such thing as the perfect Christmas

 There’s so much pressure for Christmas to be a certain way. Every year, we’re bombarded with images of ‘perfect families’ on TV, adverts and social media. But every family is different, and none are perfect.

So give yourself a break from the pressure to do everything perfectly, and focus on what matters to you. This might be spending time with friends, family, children or simply enjoying your own company with a good book and a glass of fizz.

Put the kids first

If you have children, you might be dreading the first Christmas of sharing them with your ex. But it’s really important for you both to put aside your own feelings and draw up a plan that puts your children’s needs first. It’ll require compromise on both sides, but it’s worth it for your kids to feel safe, loved and part of a family where everyone respects each other.

Try to see the positives

It’s understandable to feel gloomy as Christmas approaches, but dwelling on the negatives will only make you feel worse. If you can, try to focus on the positives. Christmas is a good time for gratitude, where we feel thankful for the things we do have. This might be a warm, lovely home, a family or friends who love you, a delicious meal or a much-loved family pet.

Take time to look after yourself

The most important thing you can do for yourself this Christmas is practice a little self-care. Aim to keep your mind and body in balance by eating properly, getting lots of sleep, exercising and avoiding drinking too much. A little pampering couldn’t hurt either, whether it’s a long bath or buying yourself a little Christmas treat – whatever makes you feel good about yourself.

If you need any legal advice or support over the Christmas period, get in touch with Wirral divorce solicitor Tracey Miller Family Law by completing our online contact form – we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.