Divorce and Dispair

There should be no shame in deciding that you need to see a therapist. A divorce can be equated to a “slam dunk” into the basketball hoop of depression. Don’t beat yourself up for the pain you are feeling. You need to understand that some of the parts of your situation may increase the possibility that you may become depressed.

Some ares that might cause more sadness, fear or depression

• The length of your marriage
• If you are still in love with your spouse
• If and how much you were abused
• The financial independence you have
• How many children you have
• Your ability and your spouse’s ability to communicate and compromise
• Substance abuse
• Another woman

Remember that depression is not the same thing as sadness. If you find that you are withdrawing from daily activities or responsibilities, if you have trouble sleeping, have a loss of appetite, experience prolonged bouts of crying or you no longer enjoy simple pleasures, you might need to see a therapist. It’s a better choice to seek a therapist only to find that you don’t need one than to avoid therapy when you are depressed.

Often therapy helps to strengthen a divorcing woman’s understanding of herself and spouse. Therapy can often be a conduit for strength and understanding that your life isn’t over just because you are getting divorced.

Photo by basykes