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Can Divorce Impact Your Sleep?

Here are the reasons why your recent divorce might be causing your sleepless nights.

By Casey ChesterfieldPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
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From the emotional repercussions to the hefty financial cost, divorce is always a difficult thing. One area that many don’t consider when thinking about the side effects of a divorce, however, is sleep. There are actually several ways that you may find your sleep cycle is affected by a recent divorce, as well as one that is currently in process. Read on to learn what they are and how they can be addressed, so you can sleep better in the wake of your separation.

In a study of couples undergoing divorce, 100 percent of participants experienced a loss of delta wave sleep. Delta wave sleep is crucial for feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Many scientists consider it one of the most beneficial aspects of sleep, so missing out on it because of a stressful divorce can be problematic for your physical and mental health. But what exactly causes the stress that disrupts your sleep in the middle of a divorce?

One of the reasons you may be feeling stress during your divorce is the uncertainty and waiting that comes with the process of filing for a divorce. Especially if you’re not the one who wants a divorce, there can be a lot of anxiety that accompanies the process of filling out the necessary paperwork and wondering how much of your financial worth will wind up with your soon-to-be ex. If you are losing sleep over the financial weight of your divorce, it may be worth reassessing your attorney, or retaining one if you haven’t yet. A simple search for “divorce lawyers near me” can help you find qualified professionals who may be able to give you greater peace of mind. Knowing which of your assets are and are not at risk in your divorce, as well as having someone to help protect your financial interests, can go a long way in helping you get more and better sleep.

Another reason that divorce may lead to sleep issues is the absence of your spouse. Especially if you have been married for several years or longer, you can grow used to sleeping next to someone. When they move out in the midst of a separation, this can cause you to miss their presence, both subconsciously and consciously. Their absence may make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep, which in turn can affect your stress levels during the next day and the rest of the week. Sometimes addressing this issue is as simple as propping up a few pillows next to you in bed. Placing something prominent where your partner used to sleep can help you strike a familiar position when winding down for the night, making you more comfortable as you try to fall asleep. With time, you may find yourself needing those extra pillows less and less.

Of course, sometimes your sleeping issues won’t go away, even if your divorce is finalized. In these situations, it’s best to seek sleep disorder care to ensure that there isn’t a more serious condition that needs treating. If you are struggling with insomnia, sleep walking, or have any other problems, you’ll be able to have them diagnosed and treated from a sleep professional. Sometimes they may suggest white noise machines or medication to help you fall and stay asleep. Many report that different forms of meditation have been a powerful tool in the wake of a divorce, particularly Transcendental Meditation. Besides helping with sleep, this approach to meditation has helpful benefits during the daytime too, and can also address the underlying stress and anxiety from your divorce that is negatively affecting your sleep cycle.

In the midst of a divorce, it’s never a bad idea to seek help. Whether that’s finding a sleep professional, talking to an experienced attorney, or starting a meditation practice, there are plenty of ways to take care of yourself during your divorce.

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