Big changes in your life, whether they are good or bad, can potentially lead to depression. This is because big changes lead to the creation of new habits and new ways of looking at the world. If you are going through difficulties in your marriage or you have recently gone through a divorce, you may be experiencing symptoms of depression as a result.
You should not simply ignore these signs. When symptoms of depression are not addressed early on, they may worsen and lead to more serious symptoms. The following are things that you can do if you are suffering from divorce-related depression.
Get professional help
No type of support can substitute for professional help. Going to therapy will help you process emotions, and give you new perspectives so that you can look at your situation in a better way. You may also be able to be prescribed medication so that you can begin to feel better.
Allow yourself to grieve
Many divorcees go through emotional difficulties because they do not actually allow themselves to grieve. Instead, they may repress all negative emotions. This can eventually lead to depression. Allow yourself to acknowledge the sadness you feel regarding the end of your marriage and eventually you will be able to move forward in a positive light.
Seek a new community
You may struggle to fully move on because all the friends you have are also friends with your ex. If this is the case, try to actively engage in new communities. This prospect can be daunting, especially when you are already feeling anti-social due to your depression. However, it may not be as scary as you believe. Joining a gym class, going to a support group or simply engaging more with acquaintances in your workplace could lead to new friendships that uplift you.
Know that this will pass
Depression should be treated very seriously, and not taken lightly. But many people become consumed by it, thinking that their feelings will last forever. All emotions are temporary, and if you are currently going through a hard time, you should take comfort in that.
If you are currently going through a difficult divorce, taking action to assert your legal rights could help you to move forward more positively.
