What Are the Mental Health Effects of Divorce?

 Posted on October 23, 2024 in Divorce

People tend to think of their wedding as the start of their "happily ever after," but for approximately 41 percent of couples in America, it can be the opposite. With divorce affecting so many people, there is increasing awareness of how it can negatively or positively affect someone’s mental health. It used to be commonly thought that divorce was associated with mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and alcoholism. Nowadays, more people are discussing the benefits of ending an unhappy marriage. If you are concerned about the possible mental health effects of divorce, speak with an experienced Naperville, IL family law attorney to get a better sense of what you can expect from the process.  

Mental Health Risks Associated with Divorce

Given the distress, uncertainty, disappointment, and heartbreak that can accompany a divorce, it is no wonder that there are strong links to mental health risks. One study indicated that when a couple mutually decides to separate, there are fewer mental health implications. When the person’s spouse initiates the separation, the harm tends to be more significant. In general, mental health issues that can be associated with divorce include:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Isolation

• Low self-esteem

• Post-traumatic stress

• Fear of commitment

• Inability to trust

• Substance abuse

The added burden of financial stress can further compound these issues.

Mental Health Benefits of Divorce

While people generally feel downtrodden and mentally unwell immediately after getting a divorce, many find that with time, they feel just as good or even better. Ending an unhappy marriage can give someone a sense of liberation and empowerment. They might feel "unstuck" for the first time in years, finally able to focus on who they are and who they want to be. For some couples, marriage seems like a burden, and breaking out of it feels like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders.

Methods to Cope with the Mental Health Effects of Divorce

The impact of divorce on mental health varies widely and can be influenced by steps an individual actively takes to cope. Some effective strategies for reducing mental health risks and focusing on positive outcomes include:

• Seeking support: People who allow themselves to ask for help and lean on family, friends, and support groups tend to process their emotions and recover more than others.

• Attending therapy: This can be particularly helpful for someone trying to navigate loss, grief, and anger and reframe these feelings so they can move forward.

• Focusing on self-care: Creating nurturing routines and implementing self-care is a great way to reduce harmful tendencies and cope.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Naperville, IL Divorce Lawyer

If you are considering divorce, speak with a seasoned DuPage County, IL family law attorney. You should not remain stuck in an unhappy and unhealthy marriage just because you are nervous about possible negative mental health effects. At Pesce Law Group, P.C., we can help you understand what you might expect in your divorce proceedings and guide you toward a favorable outcome. Call us at 630-352-2240 to schedule a free consultation.