The health of any relationship is usually defined by the mental health of the people within it. It’s common for those going through a divorce to have had struggles with mental health in the past. They may have been feeling insecure or unfulfilled in their marriage, and as a result, tensions may have risen between spouses.
In addition to mental health issues being a potential catalyst for divorce, it is also possible for the opposite scenario to be true. Divorce is an extremely stressful and upsetting time for everyone involved. Many newly single people feel that they are lost without the emotional security of their marriage, and this can give rise to feelings of depression and hopelessness.
Anyone going through a divorce should understand that such intense emotions are all part of the process. However, feelings of loneliness, hopelessness or depression should also be taken seriously, and not simply ignored. The following are some things you should do if you feel that your mental health is suffering due to divorce.
Give yourself time to grieve
Mental health issues often arise when emotions are repressed or ignored. We all have positive and negative emotions, and all of these should be acknowledged and worked through. It may be that you are afraid to dwell in sadness or acknowledge the sense of loss you feel after the breakdown of your marriage. While they may not be comfortable feelings, it is important to give yourself time to process them. Keeping a diary and writing about what you are feeling can be a great way to do this.
Talk to someone about the way you are feeling
We are all social creatures. While you may sometimes feel embarrassed or ashamed about the way you are feeling, it is important to share this with someone you trust. Talking to friends can be a helpful way to process your thoughts. However, if you are feeling anxious or depressed, you should talk to a medical professional who can advise you.
Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging. However, by ensuring that you are prepared for contentious issues such as property division and child custody, you will be able to guarantee a smoother and less stressful process.