Regardless of the circumstances, getting a divorce can have a dramatic impact on your mental wellbeing. Divorce can bring on feelings of failure, despair, and anxiety about the future. Some people end up developing unhealthy coping mechanisms in order to deal with the torrent of emotion following the end of a marriage. Although going through a divorce can be extremely stressful, it is not only possible to get through the rough times most people end up much happier and healthier than they were before the divorce. Mental health experts encourage anyone going through a stressful divorce to avoid these common mistakes.
Mistake 1: Being Too Hard on Yourself
If you are an overachiever, have children to care for, or have a demanding career, you may not take time for yourself very often. Mental health specialists encourage those ending a marriage to give themselves a break. Do not expect yourself to be able to function at 100 percent when you are dealing with the emotional and financial burden of a divorce. Just as your body needs rest after a physical injury, your mind needs time to heal after an emotionally-trying time too.
Mistake 2: Isolating Yourself
Many people feel a great deal of shame and sadness when they end a marriage. They may also worry that people will judge them or be disappointed in them. This can lead people to turn inward and stop spending time with family and friends. However, isolating yourself in this way can make the pain of divorce even worse. The American Psychological Association encourages those getting divorced to find a strong social network and consider joining a divorce support group in order to cope with the difficulties of divorce.
Mistake 3: Turning to Drugs and Alcohol
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that the risk of developing an alcohol addiction increases after divorce. This is especially true for people with a family history of alcoholism. While drugs or alcohol may provide temporary relief from painful feelings, the long-term results of abusing these substances can be disastrous. Drug and alcohol use may even factor into court decisions regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time.
Contact an Illinois Divorce Lawyer
At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC., we understand just how difficult it can be to end a marriage. We provide compassionate legal guidance on issues related to property division, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and other divorce-related concerns. Call our office today at 630-665-7300 to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled Wheaton divorce attorneys.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/healthy-divorce
https://www.mhanational.org/separation-and-divorce
https://www.drugrehab.com/2017/03/21/alcoholism-linked-divorce-studies-suggest/
