Divorce's Effect on Health

 Posted on September 15, 2016 in Divorce

When you file for divorce, your whole life changes. You might move out of your home or have to cancel your credit card and bank accounts, then reopen accounts in your own name. During the court processes of a divorce, it can be easy to ignore your personal needs, especially your health.

Going through a divorce can take a toll on your physical health as well as your mental health. In fact, certain specific health problems are linked to divorce. If you are considering filing for divorce or you have already done so, you may be susceptible to developing any of the following conditions. Speak with your healthcare provider about the divorce and any changes to your health so he or she can properly address them.

Cardiovascular Disease in Women

If you are a divorced woman, you have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease than a married woman. This phenomenon is linked to your increased stress level, which can cause you to suffer from inflammation for a prolonged period of time.

Insomnia

Divorce is stressful. Stress increases the amount of cortisol in an individual's body. Cortisol is a hormone that alters how you react to stressful situations and when there is an abundance of it in your body, you can suffer from insomnia. This is especially true if you feel like you are living in a cycle of constant stress – normally, cortisol levels drop when the stressor is removed.

Depression

It is not uncommon to feel depressed while a divorce is pending or following a divorce. Many people report a drop in their self-esteem related to their divorce. Others feel an increased level of stress due to the conflicts with their former spouse and their financial concerns. Depression after divorce can be especially dangerous because many individuals instinctively push their emotions aside and ignore their mental health problems.

A Weakened Immune System

The constant stress of a divorce can also take a toll on your immune system, which puts you at a greater risk of suffering from all types of infections. These include colds, food poisoning, and sinus infections. When you are working through the divorce process, the best way to protect your immune system and your overall health is to take time for self-care. Get an appropriate amount of sleep each night, keep up with your normal diet and exercise routine, and do not feel embarrassed or afraid to talk about your feelings with a licensed counselor or a close friend.

Work with a Kane County Divorce Lawyer

When you file for divorce, you might not realize the ways it can affect your physical and mental health. It is important for you to continue receiving regular checkups from your doctor as you work through the divorce process. For legal advice and representation as you move through each step, work with an experienced Kane County divorce lawyer. Contact the Goostree Law Group today to schedule your initial consultation with a member of our firm who can answer your questions and help you make productive choices with regard to your divorce and your health.

Source:

http://www.prevention.com/sex/marriage/divorce-and-health-effects