Most people know that there are significant repercussions after a separation. Couples have to untangle their lives from someone else and pick up what’s left to start a whole new stage of their future. It’s a tough task and often intimidates most people.
While most people focus on the emotional or financial aspects, there are many physical effects that come with a divorce. It’s important to know what they are in order to prevent them during your specific situation.
A broken heart (literally)
Why most people feel like their hearts are broken in a figurative sense, there is research to show that create physical stress on your heart. A study in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that both men and women have higher chances of developing cardiovascular disease after going through a divorce than their married counterparts.
Most experts agree that the stress caused by separations usually result in physical manifestations, like elevated blood pressure or stress on vital organs. It makes sense that as your stress levels increase, the chances for heart-related issues would also increase.
Sleepless nights
Many divorcees suffer from sleep disruptions during their divorce proceedings. While most people overcome this hurdle, there is a small population that ends up developing sleep disorders like insomnia. According to the National Sleep Foundation, depression is a huge factor in insomnia and most sleep disorders. It makes sense that depressed people, going through a divorce, would struggle with sleep deprivation.
Toxic coping mechanisms
Finally, one of the largest physical factors is substance abuse. Many spouses may turn to unhealthy alternatives to cope with the pain that comes with ending a marriage. Some people become dependent on alcohol, cigarettes or drugs, and each of those offers their adverse effects.
There are more physical effects from your mental health to your immunity, so it’s critical to take care of yourself and treat yourself with kindness as you transition into the newest stage of your life. If you struggle, work with family or friends to create a healthy, loving environment for you to flourish.
