Divorce can take a major toll on mental health. Experts share ways Houstonians can cope

For many people, the end of a marriage is one of life’s most emotionally difficult experiences, even as divorce rates in the U.S. have declined over the past several decades.

According to the Pew Research Center, about one-third of Americans who have ever been married had experienced a divorce as of 2023.

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Mental health experts say divorce can bring on grief-like emotions, including sadness, depression, loneliness, isolation and low self-esteem. While every person’s experience is different, psychologists say it’s important to recognize that healing often takes time.

“This is a relationship we’re choosing to let go,” one counseling psychologist said. “And depending on the era that we grew up in, if we’re told that we stay married for life, we could also be dealing with some stigma, and that can take a mental toll on us as well.”

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Experts recommend several strategies to help navigate the emotional challenges that often follow the end of a marriage, including:

• Allow yourself time to grieve. Healing is a process, and it’s normal to experience a range of emotions.
• Lean on your support system. Friends, family and trusted loved ones can provide encouragement during difficult times.
• Consider individual therapy. Speaking with a mental health professional can help you process emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
• Try journaling. Writing down your thoughts and feelings may help you better understand and work through them.
• Spend time outdoors. Regular time in nature and physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
• Reconnect with yourself. Experts encourage people to rediscover hobbies, interests and goals that may have taken a back seat during marriage.

While recovery looks different for everyone, psychologists say prioritizing your mental health and giving yourself grace can make the journey forward a little easier.

If feelings of depression or hopelessness become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, experts recommend seeking help from a licensed mental health professional.