Minimizing Negative Impacts of Divorce

It’s one of the most traumatic events in life for many people, so it’s no surprise that the effects can be devastating. While many people expect to experience mental health impacts to be short term, research demonstrates that these issues can last for years. And because the physical self is connected to the mental self, physical repercussions of divorce are common, as well.

Mental Health

Many people focus on their children during and after divorce, and rightly so. They are, after all, a parent’s primary responsibility. But parents should understand that they have to address their own issues, as well. When a parent is unhealthy mentally and emotionally, kids can sense it. You don’t need them worrying about your anger or loneliness. For all of your sakes, address your own anxieties, depression, and other emotions through therapy, exercise, commuting with nature, or another method that works for you.

Physical Health 

You may be surprised to learn that many individuals still suffer from chronic conditions years after going through a divorce. Research reveals that depression, general illnesses, substance abuse, and mortality are all higher for men and women who are divorced compared to their married counterparts. What conditions are we talking about? Conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, metabolic issues, digestive problems, and even mobility issues, are 20 percent more likely for divorcees than for those who remain married.

You Can Reduce These Issues

Many of these health issues boil down to stress.  Financial changes, co-parenting problems, and continued fighting with your ex all contribute to negative health outcomes. Chronic stress over long periods of time tends to wear down the immune system, which in turn can make you susceptible to all kinds of issues, from simple colds and the flu to more serious health impacts. The good news is that you have the power to change all of this. It starts with identifying the specific themes that cause you stress. Next, create a plan with specific steps to mitigate the onset of those stressors. You’d be surprised at how powerful you will feel when you discover that you can immerse yourself in healthy thinking and activities instead of simply accepting that the aftereffects of divorce can be debilitating.

Getting Through Divorce

While divorce can be stressful, the experienced Springfield divorce attorneys at Courtney & Mills always work to achieve the best possible outcomes for you, and that includes trying to moderate the conflict while negotiating the terms of your divorce. If we can be of service, schedule a confidential consultation in our Springfield office today.

Source:

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4011132/