Divorce has a higher toll on men

Can divorce be more difficult on men than has previously been known? Well, that's what a recent case study has determined, debunking the long-held idea men better handle a marriage breakup than women.

In fact, as the study states, higher mortality rates and levels of substance abuse, in addition to less social support, all take an acute toll on divorced men.

This study, found in the Journal of Men's Health, went on to warn that there needs to be increased urgency for medical experts to recognize, understand and treat men with divorce-related health problems.

In its most traditional guise, it should be no surprise that divorce is known to cause varied and profound psychological and behavioral disorders. However, this latest study confirms that unmarried men tend to live shorter lives, but with increased health issues, than their married counterparts.

The increased attention to the health of divorced men has resulted in one case where experts gave clinical guidelines and recommendations to a 45-year-old divorced man as to how he can better care for himself.

"Popular perception, and many cultures as well as the media present men as tough, resilient, and less vulnerable to psychological trauma than women. However, this article serves as a warning signal not to follow such unfounded perceptions," said a medical doctor associated with the study.

The doctor went on to say, "The fact is that men get affected substantially by psychological trauma and negative life events such as divorce, bankruptcy, war, and bereavement. Research is urgently needed to investigate the prevalence and impact of such effects and to develop diagnosis and treatment guidelines for practitioners."

Needless to say, divorce can be a traumatic event for both women and men, just as is described in this study. It's best to have support from your friends and family, but also from legal, financial and mental health professionals when needed.

Our attorneys can assist with any legal needs that may arise from a divorce, including divorce litigation itself, asset division, and name changes. Contact our attorneys today for legal aid.

Source:  Psych Central, "Men's Mental Health Suffers After Divorce" Rick Nauert, PhD, Oct. 01, 2013