If you and your spouse decide to end your marriage, the ensuing divorce process can result in a variety of emotions. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your divorce, you may experience feelings of depression.
According to the National Library of Medicine, those who experience a major, stressful life event, like a divorce, are 2.5 to 9.4 times more likely to experience depression. Although feelings of sadness, depression, grief, and frustration may be inevitable during your divorce, there are still steps you can take to protect your emotional health.
Talk to someone
You may experience a wide range of emotions during the divorce process. Instead of ignoring them and trying to move forward, work through these emotions with a close friend or family member or a mental health counselor.
Discover new interests
Although divorce marks the end of your marriage, it also commemorates the beginning of a new phase in your life. Use this as an opportunity to try a new hobby or activity or get back into an activity you used to enjoy.
Care for your physical health
The way you feel physically can affect how you feel mentally and emotionally. For this reason, take steps to improve your physical health. For example, commit to getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious diet and getting in some physical activity every day.
At times, it may feel like the emotional difficulties of your divorce will never end. Keep in mind that this phase of your life will eventually come to a close and that you have the power to move forward toward a fulfilling future.