Statistics on Post-Divorce Depression
Effective Coping Strategies for Post-Divorce Depression
Going through a divorce can take its toll on you in multiple ways. Although one might think that reaching the “finish line” in a divorce will end the emotional turmoil that often accompanies it, that is not always the situation. The post-divorce adjustment period can be a challenging and unique one! It is common that individuals find themselves dealing with a myriad of emotional challenges after divorce, including loneliness and unhappiness which can lead to depression. In this blog post, we will discuss some post-divorce statistics and suggest some tips and resources to help avoid experiencing these types of problems.
Some Concerning Post-Divorce Statistics
Studies show that depression rates are 20-25% higher for those who experience divorce contrasted with those who have not been divorced. Additionally, some show that 50% of divorces reported at least 1 depressive episode after their divorce. This increase in depression rates can be linked to multiple feelings like loneliness, grief, and isolation. The Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory study shows that divorce is second, right behind death of a spouse, that is one of the most stressful situations people endure through life. Depression can range from mild to severe. It also seems to occur in higher percentages with women.
Some Symptoms to Watch For
If you think you might be headed towards a depression, here are some symptoms that are commonly associated with depression:
- Sadness that won’t go away
- Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
- Crying more often
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Loss of appetite
- Substance Abuse
Click here to find an online mental health self-assessment tool that might be of value to complete to see how
It is Important to Seek Professional Help to Handle Post-Divorce Depression
Statistics show that “42% of divorcees claim they would have sought professional help to handle the depression had they been more aware of its impact.” This statistic is an important reminder that you don’t have to be alone in handling depression. Reaching out to a trusted professional can allow you to vent and get practical advice to use to combat your feelings. Therapists can give many suggestions to help you overcome your depression which include: medication, relaxation techniques, acupuncture or message therapy.
Click here if you wish to read more post-divorce statistics.
I have been a huge proponent for years of including client’s counselors/therapists as part of our team during divorce cases. This approach has helped out tremendously allowing clients to avoid feeling like they are paralyzed or treading in quick sand for long periods after their divorce is over.
Practical Tips for Managing Post-Divorce Depression
Other tips that have been found to be helpful when dealing with depression are allowing yourself time to grieve, and getting enough sleep. Talkspace, a mental health resource, has some excellent information about post-divorce depression. One of the tips is asking a friend to meet to get coffee or go for a walk. Although you might tend to want to isolate yourself because of your situation, it really can contribute in a negative way to your emotional health. Consider trying to push yourself gradually to be perhaps a bit more social and find people you trust to lean on during this difficult time!
If you are looking for more guidance dealing with mental health and depression, check out our other blog articles which we have posted in the past on the Ohio Family Law Blog from as far back as 2012:
- Advocating for Your Mental Health as You go Through a Divorce is Really Important!
- May is Mental Health Month – How Divorce can Affect Mental Health?
- Divorce Time Out: Take Your Emotional Pulse
PUBLISHER’S NOTE:
Special thanks to law extern Anna DeFilippo for writing this! Great job! Anna has been externing with us this semester. Anna will be graduating from the University of Dayton School of Law in January of 2025. We will miss you and we know you will have a GREAT legal career!
Experienced, Trusted and Professional Dayton Divorce Lawyers
Our experienced Dayton divorce lawyers at Holzfaster, Cecil, McKnight & Mues can assist you with your divorce, custody or dissolution related issues. To learn more, please go to our website at www.hcmmlaw.com or call us at 937 293-2141. We can schedule an in-person conference or one by phone or Zoom. We look forward to assisting you!
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Attorney Robert “Chip” Mues has been focusing his legal practice throughout Southwest Ohio primarily in divorce and family law matters since 1978. Chip is passionate about family law and has proudly published the Ohio Family Law Blog since 2007. In addition, he is the managing partner of Holzfaster, Cecil, McKnight & Mues. To learn more about him or the law firm, visit the firm’s website at www.hcmmlaw.com. Appointments are available in person, over the phone or by Zoom. Call us at 937 293-2141.
