Divorce and Your Health

The old adage “if you have your health you have everything” is especially true if divorce is looming. In addition to the legal, social, and financial consequences of going it alone, severing ties with your spouse impacts your emotional and physical well being.

Cradling your health during significant life change is selfless and smart. If you cannot function because you are not physically or emotionally well, the process will be even more of a challenge for you and your children.

The stress factor of separation or divorce should not be underestimated, even if you are in good health. This is particularly true if you’ve been married a long time, you’re a mom, or if your relationship has been highly contentious. The effect of adversity may not manifest as illness until after the cause of the stress is over.

Good health is also a financial asset given the current cost of health care and the challenges of qualifying for health insurance at affordable rates. If coverage is not available through your employer, check with an independent agent about the cost of an individual policy.

Paramount to a quick recovery is the ability to embrace a healthy lifestyle, fun activities, and supportive friendships. This involves a rigorous pro-active inventory of personal life issues including thoughts about the following…

1. Do I value myself enough to make taking care of me priority one, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and enough rest?
2. Do I have adequate health insurance? Is emotional wellness covered?
3. Do I have health issues that could impair my ability to get health insurance?
4. What happens if I become ill? Will family members help?
5. Can I afford and qualify for disability insurance?

Here are some practical tips:

Create time and space for daily prayer or reflection.
1. A strong spiritual foundation will help reduce your stress.
2. Identify a support system for you and your children.
3. Choose family, friends and trusted counselors that will hold your concerns in confidence.

Cindy Hide, BA, JD, is Director of Divorce Education for Women and author of 7 Steps to Divorcing Wisely: Do I Stay or Do I Leave?: A woman's guide to pray, pause and ponder...She offers family law legal services, life coaching by phone, seminars, FREE e-tips and an on-line bookstore with instant downloads, videos, books, and jewelry to empower women in relationship transition. Visit http://www.DivorceEducationForWomen.com or call 713.599.0065.