Dr. Judith Gerhart, CFP
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst 
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Coping With Depression
May 28, 2008
How to cope with the depression that comes from separation, divorce and widowhood
Depression is a constant theme in separation, divorce and widowhood. It is fuelled by low self-esteem and guilt.
Depression is often the flip side of anger on the emotional coin. You swing back and forth between despair and rage and achieve equilibrium of sorts. And while depression doesn’t make you feel good, it plays a key role in the healing process.
It forces you to look at yourself and not lay blame-and anger-on your spouse. Ultimately, depression is the prelude to sadness and grief as you mourn the loss of your marriage.
Therapists point out that in times of stress, depression can be a healthy emotion. It’s the psyche’s way to cope with loss. In contrast to anger, depression is a numbing response.
Most people getting a divorce or facing life after the loss of a spouse fall between two extremes.
You feel a tremendous sadness and you are a little scared particularly when you think about the future.
In general, women experience tremendous anxiety over living alone and taking on new responsibilities as head of a household. Anxiety deepens your depression; depression can also heighten your anxiety. You feel overwhelmed. Yet somehow, most of the time, you manage.
Posted by Judith Gerhart on May 28, 2008 | Permalink | Post a comment
Topics: Divorce, My Articles, Widowhood |
