How divorce affects mental health. Divorce can be a challenging chapter in life, but it doesn’t have to define your story. As the renowned author, Elizabeth Gilbert, once said, “You can be the storm that calms the waters or the anchor that holds you steady.” For an individual, divorce can be one of the most challenging and emotionally devastating experiences in life.
Many people find it difficult to approach divorce positively or to accept reality and move forward mentally in a happy way. Kerala’s social environment often fails to accommodate this struggle. Therefore, seeking proper counseling is a crucial step on this journey. Availing divorce counseling services available in Malayalam can help make this highly distressing journey a bit more positive.
This blog explores how divorce counselling helps navigate the mental stress and emotional stages associated with divorce, enabling individuals to move forward positively. Read on to learn more about coping strategies and rebuilding life.
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Emotional stages people go through during divorce
Divorce is a life-altering experience that can trigger a wide range of emotions. Understanding the emotional stages of divorce can help individuals cope with the process and emerge stronger on the other side.
1. Shock and Denial: (The “This-ca n’t-be-happening” phase).
Individuals may feel numb, disbelieving, or detached from the situation. This stage is a coping mechanism that helps individuals process the news and come to terms with the reality of the situation.
2. Anger: (The “Why me?” fire)
Individuals may feel resentful, frustrated, or furious towards their ex-partner, themselves, or the situation. This stage is a natural response to the perceived injustice or hurt caused by the divorce.
3. Bargaining: (The “What if?” game)
In an attempt to regain control, individuals may enter a bargaining stage. They may try to negotiate with their ex-partner, themselves, or even a higher power to undo the divorce or improve the situation. This stage is often characterized by “what if” and “if only” thoughts.
4. Grief:
Individuals may experience intense sadness, emptiness, or loneliness. This stage is a necessary part of the healing process, allowing individuals to process their emotions and come to terms with the loss.
5. Depression: (The “Ugh, I’m stuck” blues)
The emotional toll of divorce can lead to depression, characterized by feelings of hopelessness, despair, or being stuck. This stage requires support from loved ones, therapists, or support groups to navigate the complex emotions.
6. Acceptance: (The “Okay, I’ve got this” vibe)
Eventually, individuals reach a stage of acceptance, where they begin to rebuild and find a new sense of purpose. This stage is marked by feelings of calm, hope, and renewed energy.
Stress, anxiety, and depression after separation
In the Malayalam movie Grandmaster, the characters Chandrashekhar (Mohanlal) and Deepti (Priyamani) are separated individuals. The movie depicts the tension and mental difficulties they experience in their lives as a result.
Separation can be a significant source of mental stress for anyone. If not resolved properly, it can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Seeking mental health support and online divorce counselling in Kerala can help. Such counselling is useful for overcoming separation stress and emotional pain after divorce.
Stress:
Separation is ranked as the second most stressful life event, trailing only behind the death of a spouse. This stress can manifest physically, emotionally, and psychologically. According to research published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, individuals in abusive marriages with high conflict experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Anxiety:
According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 40% of recently divorced adults experience anxiety disorders, with symptoms including panic attacks, social anxiety, and health anxiety.
Depression:
Divorce increases the likelihood of depression, with individuals being 23% more likely to develop clinical depression than those who remain married.
Common Symptoms
- Emotional Symptoms: Feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and anxiety
- Physical Symptoms: Sleep disruptions, appetite changes, fatigue, and physical pain
- Behavioral Symptoms: Social withdrawal, substance abuse, and self-destructive behaviors
Impact of divorce on self-esteem and identity
Divorce is not just a legal separation; it significantly impacts one’s self-esteem and confidence. When a long-term partnership ends, individuals often struggle to understand their identity and rebuild their life. Proper counselling helps overcome these challenges, enabling a positive transition. It aids in viewing life positively, fostering growth and renewal.
- Divorce can lead to a loss of identity, especially if the individual’s sense of self was deeply tied to their role as a partner or spouse.
- The emotional turmoil of divorce can trigger negative self-talk, self-doubt, and self-blame, eroding self-esteem.
- The stigma surrounding divorce can lead to feelings of failure, shame, and inadequacy, further damaging self-esteem.
- Divorce often requires a significant shift in roles and responsibilities, leading to an identity crisis.
- The dissolution of a marriage can lead to a loss of shared identity, leaving individuals feeling lost and uncertain.
- Divorce can also provide an opportunity for individuals to explore and rediscover their own interests, values, and identity.
- Adjusting to a new reality without a partner can be challenging, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Parenting and navigating new family dynamics can be a significant stressor.
- The stigma surrounding divorce can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and social isolation.
Rebuilding self-esteem and identity requires professional support. A Malayalam therapist understands your concerns and provides tailored guidance. Our Malayalam counselling sessions help you address issues effectively, improving mental well-being and fostering growth.
Social Pressure, Family Judgement, and Stigma in Kerala
In Kerala’s social context, divorce isn’t viewed positively, with stigma and misconceptions surrounding it, much like mental health issues. Many people stay stuck in toxic relationships, prioritizing societal expectations over their well-being. Those considering divorce often lack emotional support due to societal judgment, leading to hesitation.
Counselling helps overcome these challenges, improving mental well-being and enabling a positive transition. A Malayalam-speaking psychologist understanding local nuances can make a significant difference.
- Divorced women often face social isolation, strained relationships with friends and family, and exclusion from public events.
- Deep-rooted patriarchal norms intensify emotional distress and social scrutiny, making it challenging for women to recover from divorce.
- Women face dual stigmatization as both women and divorcees, leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy.
- Parents’ interference in marital life can contribute to divorce, with mothers often playing a significant role.
- Divorced women, especially those with child custody, face severe financial difficulties and rely on parental support or low-paid jobs.
- The divorce process is lengthy and stressful, with women often facing psychological and financial struggles.
- While some studies indicate changing attitudes toward divorce, societal perception remains challenging
How Divorce Affects Sleep, Work, and Daily Life
A major life decision like divorce can significantly impact one’s life, even if it’s a positive change. The associated mental stress can affect sleep, work, appetite, and daily life.
Recognizing these signs and seeking divorce counselling, or additional support for depression and anxiety if needed, is beneficial. Online divorce counselling options in Kerala can make it easier for Malayalis to access help and navigate their challenges.
- Insomnia or hypersomnia are common, making it challenging to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Emotional distress can impair concentration, leading to decreased productivity and performance issues.
- Divorce often brings significant lifestyle adjustments, including changes in social connections, living arrangements, and daily routines.
- Divorce increases the risk of clinical depression, with symptoms like persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
- Uncertainty and stress can trigger anxiety disorders, manifesting as panic attacks, social anxiety, or health anxiety.
- Some individuals may turn to substance abuse as a coping mechanism, exacerbating mental health issues.
How divorce counselling helps emotional healing
Divorce counselling provides a supportive environment to navigate the emotional turmoil of separation.
- A therapist acknowledges and validates your feelings, helping you process grief, anger, and confusion.
- Learn effective coping mechanisms to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Develop healthier communication skills to co-parent and interact with your ex-partner.
- Explore your values, interests, and goals to rebuild your identity.
- Gain closure and move forward with confidence and hope.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety
- Improves Mental Health
- Develop a collaborative co-parenting relationship for your children’s well-being.
- Navigate the healing process more efficiently with professional guidance.
When to Seek Professional Support
- Recognizing the need for professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Feeling consumed by grief, anger, or anxiety that’s impacting daily life.
- Struggling to maintain work, relationships, or daily routines.
- Experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.
- Struggling to co-parent or communicate with your ex-partner.
- Feeling lost, uncertain, or struggling with self-worth.
Types of Professional Support:
- Therapy: Individual or group sessions with a licensed therapist in Kerala.
- Divorce Counselling: Guidance on specific issues like co-parenting or stress management.
- Support Groups: Connect with others going through similar experiences.
How Divorce Impacts Kids' Mental Health and How Counselling Can Help
Divorce can be tough on kids, and parents often worry about their emotional well-being. If they’re old enough, explain the situation clearly and involve them in the process.
Consider online counselling for them too, to help them cope and understand relationships better. This way, you’ll ensure a healthier transition for the whole family, and they’ll learn valuable lessons about relationships and resilience.
Divorce can be a seismic shock for kids, affecting their emotional world in big ways. They might feel lost, anxious, or even blame themselves. Common effects include:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood swings
- Behavioural changes
- Difficulty trusting relationships
Benefits for kids
- Emotional validation and support
- Healthy coping mechanisms
- Improved communication with parents
- Reduced anxiety and stress
Benefits for Parents
- Guidance on co-parenting
- Emotional support and stress management
- Improved communication with kids
- Better understanding of kids’ needs
Break free from the weight of divorce stress. Reclaim your life, rediscover yourself. Our online Malayalam counselling sessions offer a safe and supportive space to navigate your emotions and rebuild your life. Don’t face this alone.
Book your session today and take the first step towards healing and growth! Malayalam divorce counselling
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Reference:
- വിവാഹമോചനത്തിന് ശേഷമുള്ള ദിനങ്ങൾ ; ഓർത്തിരിക്കാം ഇക്കാര്യങ്ങൾ | How To Stay Mentally Strong While Going Through A Divorce | Asianet News Malayalam
- Reasons Behind Divorce,ഒരു ബന്ധം ഡിവോഴ്സിലേയ്ക്ക് എത്തുന്നത് എപ്പോള്? – common reasons that lead to divorce – Samayam Malayalam
- മനസ്സിന്റെ ആരോഗ്യത്തെ താളം തറ്റിക്കുന്ന ‘വിവാഹമോചനം‘; തിരിച്ചെടുക്കാം ആരോഗ്യകരമായ മനസ്സിനെ|Mental Health| Divorce|Samakalika Malayalam|Samakalika Malayalam News |Malayalam Latest News|Health News
- വേര്പിരിയല് അത്ര എളുപ്പമല്ല, മാനസികാരോഗ്യത്തെ തകര്ത്തേക്കും; നേരിടേണ്ടത് ഇങ്ങനെ | Relationship Facts: Divorce Might Shatter a Person’s Mental Health, Learn the Ways to Overcome it – Malayalam BoldSky
- The Impact of Divorce on Mental Health and How to Heal – Supportive Care
- Depression after divorce
- Divorce Depression: Getting By Post-Divorce | Talkspace
