Separation and divorce are often discussed in terms of the financial damage that they cause.  What is not considered are the multiple ways the situation can negatively affect your physical health, as well. Numerous studies have shown how couples who are going through a divorce or who have recently completed a divorce report an increased number of documented medical conditions. Understanding the impact of divorce on your physical health will reduce your chances of overlooking or ignoring potential warning signs that could lead to lasting problems.

Fatigue

Couples who have recently separated and are dealing with the initial problems associated with a divorce often experience exhaustion in the form of lasting fatigue. The reasons for this fatigue vary and are often attributed to everything from an inability to sleep to stress physically draining a person’s energy level. Fatigue can make it difficult for a person to concentrate, making it harder to complete job functions, take care of children, or even attend to one’s own normal personal hygiene routines. This fatigue can threaten your ability to maintain employment or prove your ability to retain or acquire custody of minor children.

Metabolic Syndrome

While some adults develop one minor health issue during their divorces, others find themselves battling several at once. When a person suddenly develops several dangerous conditions, he or she is sometimes diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. During a divorce you may find yourself combating high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar even though you never had any of those issues before. These multiple health problems can significantly increase your chances of having a stroke or developing diabetes and heart disease. Once these problems occur, simply concluding your divorce does not guarantee a return to physical health. It could take years to manage these new health problems while some never fully recover.

Mobility Issues

It is not unusual for a man or woman going through a difficult divorce to experience depression or anxiety. He or she may feel less motivated and tempted to spend free time either in bed or sitting in one position for hours on end. Not being able to sleep, lack of motivation to exercise, and an inability to eat well can all lead to lasting mobility issues. Men and women who have gone through a divorce are 23% more likely to experience serious mobility issues such as an inability to climb stairs or walk without physical assistance. Lasting mobility problems can ultimately lead to more severe depression and weight gain that causes even more health problems.

Reducing Your Stress

No divorce or separation is completely free of trouble, but it is possible to reduce some of your stress. Having the assistance of a family law attorney who can answer your questions, guide you through the process, and take care of the difficult negotiations on your behalf can make a divorce more manageable. The compassionate attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum realize how serious a toll divorce can take on your physical and mental wellbeing. We are prepared to offer you the assistance you need during this difficult time. Contact us today and schedule an appointment at one of our four locations so that we can provide you with the legal help you need.