Stress about money and worry about the kids are common developments from divorce proceedings. Many divorcing men and women also develop official mental health conditions as they cope with this massive change in their lives. Depression, anxiety, and other psychological realities can be present and, just because divorce is common, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Don’t despair though – divorce impacts mental health but for some people, breaking up is the best thing they can do for themselves.
When the End of Love Hurts
Along with anxiety, stress, and depression, many people who go through a divorce also report habits of social isolation. Staying home or staying quiet can be helpful when your brain is too busy, but resorting to this state by default is detrimental when working through the end of a marriage. It’s important to seek professional and social support, and it’s up to you to go out and get it.
For many people, according to a study published in Psychological Medicine from Cambridge University Press, mental health changes prompted by divorce are linked to a higher risk of first-time admission for psychiatric care for depression. This treatment is a positive if you look at it as an opportunity to rest from stress, to develop self-care habits, and to re-enter your life stronger and ready to cope with divorce challenges.
Maintain Mental Health Stability During Divorce
Everyone is different. Some people are prone to mental health troubles while others cope more easily when stress develops. Believe it or not, most people cope well with divorce and this life choice can improve their mental health. Here are some factors to consider:
- Be the initiator: If a split is initiated jointly or by you instead of your spouse, there is a lower chance of severe mental and physical health impacts, according to the American Journal of Epidemiology. This might indicate that taking control of your life and future has a powerful impact on well-being.
- Prioritize mental health: When unhappily married couples choose divorce, their mental health can improve if they end their union specifically to improve their psychological health. Studies have found that women in particular benefit from this change.
- Rely on established resources: Some people use therapy and psychiatric treatment because they have already been diagnosed with a mental health condition. If divorce rolls around, these resources are invaluable. Talk therapy and medication management during a peak time of stress can help minimize the negative effects of a split.
Stay in Charge: How Divorce Impacts Mental Health
No one will try to convince you that divorce is easy, least of all your Michigan divorce lawyer. Keeping the realities of a split in perspective though can make everything much easier, especially the most difficult and heart-tugging matters like child custody and parenting time.
Yes, divorce can take a toll both physically and mentally, but the struggle is temporary. Working through your split efficiently and without antipathy toward your ex can help you and your lawyer reach a settlement as quickly as possible within the bounds of Michigan law.
Get the legal support you need from the divorce attorneys of Michigan Divorce Help at Femminineo Law. Contact us to schedule a consultation at our family law office.