Protect Your Physical and Mental Health During and After a Divorce

The divorce process can be highly stressful, sometimes causing one of the most serious emotional traumas a person can experience. Moreover, it’s wrong to assume that everyone recovers fully in the weeks and months after the ink dries on the marriage dissolution order. For some people, the physical and mental consequences can last for years. Fortunately, there are ways you can safeguard your health.

Studies have shown that divorced men and women have a higher rate of illness, depression, substance abuse and mortality than their married counterparts. In some cases, the difference is dramatic. Divorced men are much more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke and their mortality rate is two and one-half times that of married men. Women also are more prone to heart problems and immune system disorders after their marriage ends.

Divorce also has ancillary effects that can have a lasting negative impact on health. Finances are frequently strained following a divorce, leading to additional stress. In some cases, money concerns prevent individuals from obtaining the health care they need. Loneliness can also cause physical and mental harm. Many people have a difficult time socializing and engaging in group activities following the end of their marriage.

Staying in an unfulfilling relationship also takes a toll in many ways, so if you are no longer happy in your marriage, there are ways to pursue a divorce while taking measures to promote your health and well-being during and after the legal process. You can do the following:

• Consider alternatives to litigation — Reducing the strain associated with going to court can help you focus on your health and make a fresh start once the dissolution order is issued. Resolving disputes over divorce terms through negotiation or mediation is the best option for many spouses.
• Maintain healthy habits — Getting enough sleep, eating properly and exercising are more important than ever when you are going through a difficult time.
• Look to the future — Wasting time and energy rehashing old conflicts or blaming yourself for the breakup is counterproductive and unhealthy. Instead of dwelling on the past, look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

The Long Island divorce attorneys at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates, P.C. focus on the well-being of our clients. We don’t just strive to obtain a successful legal resolution. We also concentrate on helping you make a positive difference in your life for the short and long term. To make an appointment, please call 1.631.479.3839 or contact us online.