Social Media and Divorce: 5 Things to Avoid
- Lisa McNally
- Aug 24
- 3 min read
Navigating a divorce is already an emotionally complex journey. But in today’s hyper-connected world, social media can either fuel healing or wreak havoc—depending on how it’s used. As a Certified Divorce Coach, Mediator, Financial Analyst, and Divorce Real Estate Expert, I’ve seen countless clients unknowingly sabotage their cases, relationships, or reputations through impulsive online activity.
In this blog, I’ll outline the five most common social media mistakes people make during divorce and offer practical strategies to help you maintain dignity, protect your legal standing, and support your emotional recovery. Whether you're facing a gray divorce, a high-conflict situation, or an amicable split, Optimal Divorce Solutions can help you navigate with clarity, confidence, and discretion.
1. Posting About Your Ex or the Divorce Process
Why It’s a Mistake
Publicly venting about your spouse, the legal system, or your frustrations might feel cathartic in the moment. But posts can be screenshot, misinterpreted, and used as evidence in mediation or court.
Better Approach
Use private, trusted support systems such as a therapist, coach, or confidential journal. In my coaching sessions, I help clients process these emotions productively without jeopardizing their case.
2. Sharing Your New Lifestyle Too Soon
Why It’s a Mistake
Showing off vacations, shopping sprees, or a new relationship can give the appearance of financial misrepresentation or poor judgment, especially during alimony or child support negotiations.
Better Approach
Maintain a low profile online. If you’re in the early stages of divorce or in litigation, these posts can be weaponized against you. I often advise clients on what’s appropriate to share and when, based on their case specifics.
3. Allowing Friends to Tag You Without Review
Why It’s a Mistake
Even if you’re not posting directly, being tagged in questionable content can reflect poorly on your character or judgment, especially if children are involved.
Better Approach
Adjust your privacy settings to review all tags before they go public. Also, consider talking to your close circle about your desire to maintain a respectful and private online presence during your divorce.
4. Using Social Media to Spy on Your Ex
Why It’s a Mistake
Scrolling your ex’s feed can fuel resentment, anxiety, and impulsive decision-making. It can also cross legal or ethical boundaries, especially if you access private information improperly.
Better Approach
Focus on your own healing. At Optimal Divorce Solutions, we work on mindset shifts and emotional resilience, so clients are less reactive and more strategic in their divorce process.
5. Letting Your Emotions Lead Online Interactions
Why It’s a Mistake
Commenting on your ex’s posts, responding to provocations, or airing grievances publicly can backfire emotionally and legally.
Better Approach
Pause before posting or replying. Ask yourself: Would I be okay if a judge, mediator, or my children saw this? If in doubt, don’t. Or better yet, bring it into a coaching or mediation session where you can safely unpack it.
Key Takeaways
Anything you post online during divorce can be used against you.
Privacy settings matter, but nothing online is truly private.
Emotional regulation is critical in both digital and in-person interactions.
Social media can delay healing and escalate conflict if used improperly.
Support from a professional can help you manage social media responsibly.
Whether you're early in the divorce process or navigating post-divorce adjustments, remember that what you share—or don't—can have lasting effects. If you're unsure how your digital activity may affect your case, let’s talk.
I help clients make strategic, informed decisions about communication, finances, and real estate—online and offline. Schedule your free consultation at www.LisasCalendar.com to start your journey with clarity and support.
Lisa McNally
Certified Divorce Coach | Certified Divorce Mediator
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) | Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE)
Licensed Real Estate Broker (NH & ME)
Founder, Optimal Divorce Solutions
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