A new report from CivicAction has recently found that half of the workforce in the GTA, which is more than 1.5 million people, have experienced a mental health issue in their life.
Mental health problems can be triggered by both environmental and biological factors. According to a study out of Harvard University, stressful events in life can potentially lead to clinical depression and anxiety for those individuals who are susceptible to them. In the context of relationships, various studies have concluded that divorce and separation are associated with an increased level of anxiety and depression and have a long-term negative impact on mental health.
There are numerous things you can do to take control over the well being of your mind if you are going through a divorce. Below are a few great techniques that will help you cope with stress and get you back on track in creating a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
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1) Reduce everyday stress by reading
In the way of stress release during a divorce, there are several avenues that you can take. A few really good books to consider are Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff and It’s All Small Stuff by Richard Carlson Ph.D or Monkey Mind by Daniel Smith. Researchers at the University of Sussex Mindlab International have confirmed that reading is a healthy escape and will push your body into a relaxed state by lowering your heart rate and easing the tension in your muscles.
2)Talk to someone, even if that someone is you
Talking a problem through can help put it into new perspective. Speak with a friend or a family member that you trust, and discuss your issues out loud. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, this can help promote a positive and upbeat feeling within you, and is a healthier alternative to bottling things up and lettings stress fester. However, family and friends will not always be there when you’re feeling stressed, so what happens then? Talk to yourself. The Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology has published results from a study confirming that self-talk can be an effective way of releasing stress and boosting cognitive activity, but only when it’s positive.
3) Get more sleep
The stress that comes with divorce will keep you up at night. And when you don’t get enough sleep, you become tired, less patient, easily agitated, and even more stressed. According to the Sleep Disorders Health Centre, “A good night’s sleep allows you to tackle the day’s stress easier, most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night.” The National Sleep Foundation recommends eating right, avoiding alcohol induced sleep, exercising during the day, and keeping a regular schedule in order to get a better good night’s sleep and manage stress in a more effective way.
Separation and Divorce can be a difficult and uncertain time. Our team of Toronto family lawyers is dedicated to relentlessly pursue our clients’ interests, and getting exceptional results. Contact us for a consultation.
