Cardiovascular Disease
Divorce can literally lead to a broken heart. In one study from Duke University, researchers found that heart attack risk was higher for those who had gotten divorced during a 20 year period than those who remained married during that time. Linda Waite, lead researcher in a University of Chicago study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior, found that people who are divorced are 20 percent more likely to have chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer than married folks.
Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome, the name for a group of risk factors that raises your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke and other chronic health issues, can occur. These risk factors include: high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol and excess weight around the stomach. Compared to happily married women, a study in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that women who divorced, were widowed, or in unhappy marriages were more likely to develop this disorder.
Weakened Immune System
When you’re fighting with the stresses of life – like during or after a divorce – your body isn’t able to fight off disease as well as it should. Not only can stress weaken your immune system, but one Ohio State University study showed loneliness has the same effect.
Divorce can be tough mentally, emotionally, financially and physically. Though it may be easier said than done, experts suggest getting regular exercise, eating healthy meals (even when you’ve lost your appetite), spending time with loved ones and talking to a professional therapist to help support you through this major life transition and preserve your health.