It should come as no surprise that mental health issues play a large role in many divorces and relationship break-ups. One or both parties may experience mental health issues throughout the relationship and this experience may have a negative impact on the marriage.
Depression is a common mental health issue that arises in divorce. It can present as minor episode or something more prolonged and major. Not addressing the depression can lead to more problems and conflict with the result being the irretrievable breakdown of the marital relationship.
Here are some common ways depression can manifest during a marriage:
- Post-partum depression after giving birth
- Lack of interest in doing activities together
- Lack of interest in sex
- Overeating or not eating enough
- Change in behavior
- Miscommunication
- Change in expectations
- Becoming distant
- Having an extramarital relationship
Not addressing these issues and the underlying depression will only exacerbate the problems that couples suffer. There are many different approaches to treating depression including therapy or medication. It is no longer viewed as a sign of weakness to seek professional help for depression or any other mental health issue.
Many divorce professionals are aware that mental health, both treated and untreated, can be a trigger for divorce. It is never too late to get the help you need. Seek out the advice of mental health practitioners if you believe that depression is driving you apart from your spouse.
