Relationships are among the most critical aspects of our lives. Experiencing mental health issues can be challenging in a relationship, especially when you are married. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so our Southampton divorce attorney at Simonetti & Associates would like to share some information regarding the impact of mental health issues on marriage and divorce. Continue reading to learn more.
Mental Health Issues and Marriage
Mental health issues can impact several aspects of your life, including intimate relationships. Every marriage is unique, so how these issues affect your relationship depends on several factors. Here are some of the ways that mental health issues can impact a marriage:
- Communication – If your partner is affected by mental illness, communication can often become strained. It can be challenging for them to address complex emotions or articulate their feelings. Communication issues often lead to the dissolution of a marriage.
- Codependency – Codependency is an unhealthy but common marriage dynamic. These issues can arise when the “healthier” spouse spends more time caring for the mentally ill partner. When the caregiving partner neglects their own needs, they can experience feelings of resentment and anger.
- Intimacy Problems – Mental health issues can disrupt intimacy. One spouse may become disinterested in sex due to their condition or treatment. Some people with mental health conditions may have low self-esteem or feel inadequate. For both spouses, this disrupts the bond and often results in unmet needs.
Having a spouse affected by mental health issues can be navigated if both partners are willing to work together to cope and communicate through challenges. Recognizing the impact that these issues can have on your marriage is essential. If continuing on in the relationship is detrimental to both you and your spouse, our Southampton divorce attorney is here to help. Our team will help you through this emotional time and mediate an agreement that works for you and your family.
Contact Our Southampton Divorce Attorney
Mental health issues have a significant impact on a marriage. While there are ways to improve communication and problem-solving skills, these issues often lead to divorce. At Simonetti & Associates, our Southampton divorce attorney has helped many clients through the separation process and will work with you to reach a favorable resolution. Be sure to contact us today to learn more and request a consultation.
