Health consequences may follow divorce

New research from the universities of Wisconsin and Chicago has found some surprising health consequences may follow divorce. While the findings are interesting, they by no means should be taken to indicate that divorce itself is unhealthy In fact, for many people it is the best option given their current relationship.

According to researchers, people who are divorced or widowed are 22 percent more likely than those who are married to have chronic health problems. Children of divorced parents can also suffer in school and can develop problems entering and maintaining relationships with they become adults.

Milwaukee readers should keep in mind that divorce could be a proxy for other things. If a divorce is stressful, for example, it could be the stress that leads to health conditions. While we have all heard stories about bitterly fought divorces that leave both parties hurt and angry, divorce does not have to be that way. And bear in mind that an unhappy marriage that continues past its expiration date can be stressful, too.

These days, many couples are turning to options like divorce mediation, which is supposed to make the whole process run more smoothly. In the event that divorce mediation is not right for your situation, hiring an attorney you trust and feel comfortable with will at least ease your mind by making you feel like your interests are protected and you are now less likely to get taken to the cleaners. One way to find an attorney you would like to work with is to contact your local bar association for a recommendation.

Source: The Herald-Tribune, “Silverberg: Divorce takes a toll,” Kathy Silverberg, Sept. 2, 2011.