Divorce takes a tremendous toll on people’s mental health. The legal process is taxing and stressful, and the changes you go through can leave you feeling anxious and afraid about the future. It is crucial to address mental health during a divorce and after it’s complete, and there are ways to make it a little easier for you to do this.
Understand the impact
To understand why it’s so important to pay attention to your mental health, it can help to know exactly how a divorce might affect it. Some studies suggest that divorce is the second most stressful event a person can go through. As such, people going through divorce are more likely to experience:
- Stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood disorders
- Guilt or shame
Further, stressful events like divorce can increase the risk of heart attacks and compromised immune systems, which can further erode your mental well-being.
These conditions can dramatically affect your health and safety. Without support and medical care, you could suffer from eating disorders, substance abuse or even suicidal thoughts. Taking this seriously is crucial in protecting yourself and accessing tools to make it easier to navigate this difficult time.
Getting help for your mental health
If you are going through a divorce, you may already have a lot on your plate, from having to move to sharing custody with your soon-to-be ex-spouse. You might not feel you have the time, energy or resources to deal with your mental health, but neglecting it can have long-term and devastating consequences.
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to help yourself, including:
- Meeting with a therapist
- Seeking out support groups
- Discussing medication with your doctor
- Making healthy diet and lifestyle choices
- Avoiding destructive behaviors and individuals
- Prioritizing fun and relaxing activities
These strategies can help protect against isolation and boost your emotional and physical health, all of which can help you feel more optimistic and supported.
Your mental health may not always seem like a priority during stressful events like divorce, but it is vital and worth protecting. Taking these steps to improve yours during a divorce can have tremendous short- and long-term benefits.
