Facing clinical depression can be a debilitating mental health condition. Not only can it make it challenging to pick up the pieces following a divorce, it can make your new life following a divorce that much more difficult to contend with. Divorce is a scary prospect for most, but for someone who suffers from clinical depression may find it nearly impossible to pick up the pieces. If you have recently been through a divorce, and are noticing signs of depression, it may be in your best interest to receive mental health treatment from a clinical psychologist.
How can divorce impact my mental health?
There are a number of reasons people come to the decision to part ways. Whether the divorce was the result of abuse, infidelity, communication issues, etc, chances are you never thought that the marriage you committed to would end in the way that it did. The life you once knew will be completely changing, which will naturally require an adjustment period. Despite this, divorce can have a significant impact on your mental health, and even cause you to suffer from depression.
What is the difference between situational depression and clinical depression?
Following a divorce, depression may fall into two categories: situational and clinical depression. Situational depression is experienced by many, often triggered by a specific event such as a divorce. Clinical depression is consistent and severe and may be something you have managed for your entire life. However, with treatment, depression is a condition that can be managed. It’s also important to note that situational depression, when left untreated, can quickly become more severe, even having a life altering impact on your life.
Is my divorce the sole cause of the depression I am suffering?
This depends on whether you have experienced depression in the past. Regardless of this, it’s important to note that depression can be triggered by life changing events like divorce. If someone has been managing their condition for a number of years, they may find their life spiralling out of control at the prospect of divorce, making it challenging to manage major depression.
Can a clinical psychologist prescribe medication for depression?
Generally, a psychologist does not prescribe medication for depression. However, this doesn’t mean that they may not recommend it as component to your treatment. A psychologist can work with you to assess, diagnose and treat depression. They have the ability to work closely with a doctor or a psychiatrist should it be necessary to take medication for depression.
What impact may depression have on me?
Regardless of whether you are experiencing a divorce or not, depression can result in a number of symptoms. Dealing with this form of mental health condition can be incredibly challenging, especially when left untreated. If you notice any of these symptoms of depression, it may be in your best interest to seek help from a clinical psychologist:
- Anxiety
- Sadness
- Weight Loss
- Weight Gain
- Fatigue
- Thoughts of Suicide
- Insomnia
- Lack of Enjoyment
- Decreased Sex Drive
Managing a divorce can be challenging for anyone, when coupled with depression, the process can make it difficult to function in a normal way. When recovering from a divorce, it may be in your best interest to seek care from a clinical psychologist for treatment. To schedule an appointment, contact a clinical psychologist for depression treatment in Palatine, IL.
Thanks to Lotus Wellness Center for their insight into counseling and managing depressing after divorce.
