It is not uncommon for individuals who have undergone an uncontested divorce to experience depression. Recently, some of Hollywood's famous celebrities have opened up and are admitting to their depression after their own divorces. After eleven years of marriage to Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman stated she had undergone a period of depression.
Each individual is unique and may display different signs of depression. Below are some red flags of a potential depression. This is not an extensive list and a professional should be consulted in order to asses your personal situation. Signs of depression include:
- Appetite and/or weight change;
- Loss of interest in sex, work or hobbies;
- Change in sleeping patterns, sleeping more or not being able to fall asleep;
- Anger, restlessness, anxious and/or irritability;
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, pessimism, hopelessness, sadness, helplessness;
- Thoughts about death or suicide;
- Substance abuse;
- Feeling overwhelmed or tremendous stress;
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing; and
- Health problems such as chronic pain or digestive disorders.
Here are some suggestions for combating depression, though these are not cures for depression. For treatment of depression please ask for professional help. Also, an internet search will give you a list of hotlines to call for further information.
Lose Yourself
Each person is going to have that one thing that really helps him/her get their mind off their divorce. Just make sure it's a healthy pastime. This could be anything from video games, reading to swimming or working on a manual hobby. One person started knitting blankets for the homeless and later turned her skills into a new business.
Take It From Oprah Winfrey
Go get yourself a small notebook or journal and start a gratitude list. Each day write down at least five things you are grateful for. This could be anything from living in a free country to having indoor plumbing.
Step Up Your Game
Time to roll of the couch and stretch out your body. Start with simple steps, literally, go for a walk. Work up to doing other types of exercises like yoga, tai chi or swimming. Don't get caught in a black hole of junk food. Remember the saying – You are what you eat. You don't have to run out and become a vegetarian, but think about how you can start making small changes to your meals. Some foods have been reported to specifically combat depression. We suggest you consult with your doctor or a nutritionist.
Prayer, Meditation, Mantra
You don't have to be religious to take advantage of finding some time to be still and quiet your mind. Make it a practice to give yourself these five minutes for 21 days, then it normally becomes a habit. Your mantra can be anything you want it to be, usually the short and sweet ones work the best – I am loved, I am strong, I will survive. If you are having a hard time being still for five minutes a day find yourself a theme song, like Donna Summer's I will survive and sing it at the top of your lungs.
There is no shame in asking for help. If you are physically hurt you would seek the help of a medical professional. It's OK to ask for a helping hand.
If you feel that you may be experiencing depression due to your uncontested divorce please seek the help of a professional. Untreated depression can create an unhealthy lifestyle and even end in suicide.
