Understanding the connection between depression and divorce

On Behalf of | Sep 30, 2022 | High-Asset Divorce |

In Illinois, depression is a serious mental illness that can lead to a wide variety of problems in a person’s life. One of the most common ones is marital strife and ultimately, divorce. It’s important to understand how depression can lead to such problems so that you take the appropriate measures while you still can.

What are the common causes of depression in a marriage?

In a marriage, one partner may feel overwhelmed by the demands of work and child-rearing. This is often the case for stay-at-home moms. The other partner may feel like he or she is shouldering too much of the burden and that can lead to resentment. Financial problems are another common cause of depression. If one partner is unemployed or underemployed, it can put a strain on the relationship.

Thirdly, infidelity can lead to this issue in a marriage. If one partner has an affair, it can cause the other partner to feel betrayed, hurt and angry leading to divorce. Finally, if there is a history of mental illness in a family, it may be more likely that one or both partners will suffer from depression at some point in their lives.

How can depression lead to divorce?

First, if one partner is depressed, he or she may withdraw from the relationship. This can cause the other partner to feel isolated and alone. Additionally, depression can lead to communication problems. One partner may have trouble communicating how he or she is feeling, which can lead to arguments and conflict. Third, depression can cause one partner to become abusive. This may be verbal, emotional or physical abuse. Fourth, if one partner is depressed, he or she may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the condition, leading to addiction and further problems in the marriage.

If you or your spouse are dealing with depression, it’s important to seek help. Depression is a serious condition that can have a major impact on your life, and, if left untreated, it can lead to marital problems and ultimately divorce.