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Depression With Divorce

According to experts at Iowa State University, divorce is considered to be one of the most stressful experiences an individual can have. Divorce produces marked changes in family structure and personal identity, and these transitions can produce a sense of loss and grief. Each marriage and divorce is unique, but experts agree that divorce can create a higher risk for emotional difficulties, including depression.

  1. Divorce and Family Structure

    • Experts at Iowa State University note that the process of marital separation and divorce often causes a complete restructuring of a family. Spouses must divide personal belongings, leave family residences, and, if they have children, develop a new co-parenting routine. This drastic change in structures can cause increased anxiety and stress.

    Grief and Stress

    • According to reports from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), underlying emotional issues and grief can often produce conflict in a divorce. Higher levels of conflict will often result in higher stress levels among divorcing individuals. Experts at Iowa State University note that increased stress levels often put people at higher risk for eventual depression, as the stress takes a toll on the physical and mental health of the individual.

    Symptoms of Depression

    • Experts note that divorce itself is a confusing and often overwhelming experience, so stress is often the result. At the same time, people should be aware of the symptoms of a more serious issue. Symptoms of depression include loss of interest in daily activities, changes in sleep and appetite, a feeling of hopelessness, and, in serious cases, thoughts of death or suicide. Individuals going through a divorce are often encouraged to monitor their day-to-day functioning and take precautions to manage high stress levels.

    Prevention/Solution

    • People who are going through the divorce process can prevent serious levels of depression and anxiety by implementing some of the tools suggested by experts at Iowa State University. The main advice offered by experts is that people slow down and relax by taking time to rest properly and not taking on additional responsibilities. Talking to a counselor about how to break down tasks into manageable steps is also recommended. People are advised against taking on new responsibilities, relationships or life changes until they have adjusted to the life changes created by a divorce.

    Expert Insight

    • Many experts note that the transitional period after a divorce is a time to develop a new identity. Individuals will experience a change from being a part of a couple to being single, and they will have to reframe future plans from this identity. The process can be overwhelming to many, and the slow development of individual plans is encouraged. Experts agree that breaking down plans into small, manageable steps will help limit stress and reduce the risk for serious depressive episodes.

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