A divorce often calls for the services of a good lawyer. However, for the sake of both your physical and mental well-being, it might be just as important to enlist the services of good health care professionals. Whether or not there are kids in the mix, you were the one to initiate the divorce, or you think it’s a good thing, the stress of breaking off a marriage can still negatively impact your life.
The Effect on Your Health
When you think about it, the effect divorce can have on your health makes sense. Divorce is incredibly stressful, and that tension can ramp up the risk of a serious health incident.
A 2015 study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes found that women who have been through a divorce are 24 percent more likely to suffer from a heart attack, and 77 percent more likely if they’ve had more than once divorce. Additionally, research from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that divorced people are more likely to develop a chronic condition, like heart disease or diabetes, as well as experience mobility issues.
However, some of the health effects are within your control. During this period of stress, you’re also more likely to ditch good habits, such as calling for takeout instead of enjoying a healthy dinner or downing a bottle of wine instead of sipping on sparkling water. Divorce takes a toll mentally, too. A study published in Clinical Psychological Science found that people with a history of depression are more likely to relapse if they go through a divorce. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the difference between normal grief and reaching the point where you need additional help with your mental health.
How to Cope with a Divorce
Plenty of people get through divorce without any long-term health ramifications, and you can, too. Yes, exercise is important—but you probably already know that, so there’s no need to belabor the point. Here’s what you can do:
Be aware of impulsive behavior. This can include rushing into a new relationship (you might be trying to fix old problems with a new person), moving to a new city, or starting a new job. Sure, take that trip you’ve always wanted to go on as a way of clearing your mind, but don’t stray from routine too much.
Find new support groups that don’t trigger memories of your ex-spouse. Your friends, of course, can remain a source of support; however, it can be difficult to separate your memories of them from the times that you enjoyed with your former spouse on double dates. If the idea of a group dedicated solely to supporting divorcees doesn’t sound like a good fit for you, find something else—anything else, whether it’s a knitting group, a new fitness class (introduce yourself!), or getting to know a coworker better.
Declutter your life. You’ll feel a lot lighter—and less stressed—if you get rid of what’s weighing you down. That might mean sorting through a packed-to-the-brim closet, or it could refer to excusing yourself from social or charitable responsibilities that feel more like obligations rather than sources of enjoyment.
The good news: Two years after a divorce, people tend to feel better, both mentally and physically. The only real cure is time.
