Divorce is both mentally and physically taxing. For many, divorce can trigger negative health effects that last far beyond the divorce process itself. Divorce can be all consuming for a period of time and if you sideline your health, diet and exercise, as well as stress management, it is likely that you may suffer from some, or all, of the following health issues.
1. Heightened anxiety
Anxiety during and after a divorce is very common. This increased level of anxiety may subside on its own gradually. However, it is also likely that an increase in anxiety levels will result in other negative health consequences if ignored. It is important to prioritize stress management into your daily life in order to maintain your overall health and wellness during a divorce.
2. Trouble sleeping
Trouble sleeping may be a result of the aforementioned anxiety but it also might be due to a lifestyle change triggered by divorce. Maybe you are working longer hours or exercising less. Also, alcohol consumption will not impact your ability to fall asleep necessarily but will substantially impact the quality of sleep you are getting.
3. Weight fluctuations
The stress of divorce can trigger emotional eating. For some, stress causes a loss of appetite, but for many it leads to excessive eating of unhealthy foods as a coping mechanism. Weight gain is normal post divorce but can have effects on a person’s confidence and self esteem so it is important to keep emotional eating in check for the sake of both physical and mental health.
