The Emotional Effects of Divorce

 Posted on February 22, 2017 in Divorce

Divorce is one of the most stressful life experiences. People going through divorce may withdraw from social circles, feel disappointment and rejection, and lose self-esteem. All of these feelings, when coupled with financial and child custody issues, create an extremely stressful time for someone going through a divorce.

On the Holmes-Rahe Stress Inventory Scale, divorce ranks second only after the death of a spouse. Stressful events ranking lower than divorce on the scale include detention in jail, the death of a close family member and major illness or injury. Stress affects mental and physical health in a pronounced way.

Physical Health Effects

As to physical effects, divorced or widowed people have 20 percent more chronic health conditions than married people. Chronic health conditions include heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

This group of divorced and widowed people also have an increased rate of mobility limitations. Mobility limitations include not being able to climb stairs or stand for prolonged periods.

Drastic weight gain or loss, as well as the development of a metabolic syndrome, are also common for people going through divorce.

Mental Health Effects

Health professionals believe that the physical health issues experienced by divorced people are due to the tremendous mental and emotional issues they experience. Doctors reason that if someone is mentally or emotionally unwell, it is difficult for him or her to exercise or have good eating habits.

Common mental or emotional disturbances experienced during divorce include:

Depression

Depression is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, intense sadness, and withdrawal from the world. Symptoms include:

• Loss of interest in hobbies and enjoyable activities;
• Fatigue and low energy;
• Trouble concentrating; and
• Change in appetite.

Anxiety

Anxiety levels can be at their highest during a divorce. The future is uncertain and there are likely numerous changes in your life. For example, you may have to move or get a job. Your day-to-day routine has likely been altered as well. Anxiety levels can be at their highest during a divorce. The future is uncertain and there are likely numerous changes in your life. For example, you may have to move or get a job. Your day-to-day routine has likely been altered as well.

Insomnia

Sleep disruptions and nightmares are common among those going through a divorce. Insomnia is sometimes caused by depression.

Meet with a Kane County Family Law Attorney

If you are going through a divorce, you have a lot on your plate. One thing that can help is hiring an experienced Kane County divorce attorney who you can be confident is handling your divorce proceedings efficiently and professionally. Call the office of [[title]] at 630-879-9090 today.

 

Sources:

http://www.stress.org/holmes-rahe-stress-inventory/

http://www.decodedscience.org/divorce-emotional-impact-steps-recovery/36140

http://www.prevention.com/sex/marriage/divorce-and-health-effects