Depression and Divorce

 Posted on May 02, 2016 in Divorce

A divorce can bring out many emotions in an individual. An individual going through the divorce process might feel anger, resentment, frustration, and sadness as well as more positive emotions, like relief, accomplishment, and a renewed optimism about the future. Sometimes, these emotions coexist, or an individual might even feel motivated about finalizing their divorce and moving on one day, then feel crushed about the end of their marriage the next. Emotions are not always logical, nor do they have to be. 

But sometimes, the negative feelings that come with a divorce can turn into something more – a mental health disorder like depression. A divorce is a major change in an individual's life. It is not unnatural to feel depressed after going through a divorce, especially in an individual who did not initiate the divorce. If you find yourself feeling depressed in the weeks, months, or even years after your divorce is finalized, know that you are not alone. Find yourself a counselor or psychiatrist who can help you overcome your depression. You might even find a mental healthcare professional who specializes in working with individuals affected by divorce. Do not resign yourself to suffering from depression – you can get help and move on with your life.

Symptoms of Depression

It can be difficult to acknowledge your depression if you do not recognize its symptoms. Depression symptoms can vary from person to person and they can vary in their intensity. The following are all symptoms of depression in adults:

• Feelings of hopelessness;
• Feeling like you or your life have little worth;
• Irritability;
• Inability to concentrate on simple tasks;
• Appetite changes. You could find yourself eating much more than normal and gaining weight or eating much less than normal and losing weight;
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much;  
• Anxiety;
• Physical pains, such as headaches and joint pain;
• Reckless behavior; and        
• A loss of interest in normal activities, such as hobbies and your career.    

Depression can impact all areas of your life, such as your relationships with friends and family, your job performance, and your parenting abilities. If you think you could be depressed, talk with your doctor to seek a referral to a mental health specialist. Your mental health is as important as your physical health and you deserve to be at your optimal health level. Your therapist can help you overcome your depression through psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of methods.

Work with a Kane County Divorce Attorney

If you are considering filing for divorce or you have already done so and need dedicated representation from an Illinois divorce attorney, work with a member of the Goostree Law Group. Our team of Kane County divorce lawyers can answer your questions about divorce and provide you with trustworthy legal advice and quality representation as you work through this process. Contact our firm today to schedule your initial legal consultation with a member of our firm.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/basics/symptoms/con-20032977

http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2013/12/04/how-to-deal-with-depression-after-divorce-5-actionable-tips/