Sadly, divorce has become a common aspect of American culture. With more couples divorcing on a regular basis, there are plenty of test studies to support the U.S. Surgeon General’s claim that 30-40% of those undergoing divorce experience a significant increase in the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
It makes sense if you think about it. Any kind of life change has the potential to create anxiety, but getting divorced has its own special mix of problems. For many, the circumstances leading to divorce create low self-esteem and intense insecurity. Either party might question if they’ll ever find another relationship. If one party stayed home instead of working during the marriage, the divorce can lead to anxiety over how they’ll support themselves. If there are children involved, separation anxiety could become a factor, as well.
These divorce anxiety issues often lead to strong symptoms of panic:
- Sweating
- Chills
- Chest pain
- Shaking
- Tingling or numbness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Fear of losing control or going crazy
One of the best ways you can help yourself get through divorce anxiety is to seek professional help. A mental health professional will help guide you through recognizing your fears and anxieties and rebuilding your self-esteem. Other ways you can help yourself through this transition include:
- Allowing yourself to mourn. It’s perfectly normal to feel sad and upset through a change like this. Hiding from it never helps. Instead, embrace your feelings and allow yourself to express them.
- Developing a strong support team. Talking about your emotions is a crucial part of working through your divorce. You need people around you who are willing to listen.
- Expanding your social network. The sooner you embrace a social life, the sooner you’ll be able to imagine your life without that other person.
- Being patient. Moving on will not happen overnight, but it will happen.
- Practicing stress management. What works for you? Is it keeping a diary? Running? Meditation or yoga? Find your niche and use it.
If you or someone you know is getting divorced and going through divorce anxiety, seeking help can only make the transition easier. For more information, contact Dr. Andrew Rosen at 561-496-1094 or email him today.
Dr. Andrew Rosen
Dr. Andrew Rosen PHD, ABPP, FAACP is a Board-Certified Psychologist and the Founder and Director of The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders, as well as, the Founder of The Children’s Center for Psychiatry Psychology and Related Services.
