How Can Gray Divorce Affect Your Mental Health?

 Posted on October 29, 2024 in Divorce

Divorce is challenging for anyone, but when it occurs later in life, unique emotional and psychological issues can arise. For couples over 50, the stress on mental health is often intensified by aging, financial concerns, and the end of a long-term relationship. An experienced Illinois divorce attorney can help guide you through these challenges and support you during this transition

How Does Gray Divorce Affect Mental Health?

Going through a gray divorce can trigger a wide range of emotions, as the life the couple built together over decades is a deep source of identity. Mental health issues during a gray divorce may manifest in several ways:

• Depression and Anxiety: The uncertainty of starting over later in life, combined with the emotional toll of ending a long-term marriage, can lead to depression or anxiety.

• Grief Over Lost Time: Some spouses may feel a sense of mourning for the years invested in the marriage, leading to feelings of regret and sadness.

• Isolation: A divorce later in life may also lead to loneliness, as social circles and support networks built around the marriage may shrink.

• Financial Stress: Dividing retirement assets and dealing with potential changes in the standard of living can contribute to stress and affect mental health.

What Legal Protections Exist for Mental Health During Divorce in Illinois?

State laws recognize that mental health can be a significant factor during a divorce proceeding, especially when it comes to making decisions about property division, spousal support, and other financial matters. Under the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, courts can consider each spouse’s age, physical and emotional condition, and financial circumstances when determining the division of assets and spousal maintenance. By doing so, the court aims to protect each spouse’s future stability. 

How Can Therapy Help During a Gray Divorce?

Therapy can be essential in helping people cope with the emotional challenges of a gray divorce. Some spouses may also need to address pre-existing mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, which can further complicate an already difficult process. Consulting with a licensed mental health professional can provide several benefits, including:

• Emotional Processing: Therapy provides a safe space to process the complex emotions associated with the end of a long marriage.

• Rebuilding Self-Esteem: Many adults going through a gray divorce experience a drop in self-esteem. Counseling can help rebuild confidence and a sense of self-worth.

• Coping with Loneliness: A therapist can help manage feelings of isolation and assist in building new social connections.

• Improved Decision-Making: Counseling can help both spouses think more clearly about their goals and well-being, leading to healthier long-term choices.

What Should You Do If Mental Health Is Impacting Your Divorce?

If mental health concerns are affecting your ability to participate fully in the divorce process, it is essential to inform your attorney. These issues can impact negotiations related to spousal support, property division, and even retirement accounts. An attorney familiar with Illinois divorce law can work with mental health professionals to present evidence of these concerns and help ensure that any settlement reflects the realities of your situation.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Grey Divorce Attorney

If you are considering a gray divorce and are worried about how it might affect your mental health, contact a Naperville, IL divorce over 50 attorney at Divorce Over 50 - Goostree Law Group. Our legal team can help you navigate the challenges of gray divorce and provide guidance tailored to your unique needs. Call us at 630-634-5050 to schedule a free consultation.