Stress: A Top Factor in Divorce

Stress. Everyone has it at one time or another. In 2020, people have had plenty of it because of economic struggles and the changing environment of the country.

Stress is also one of the leading causes of divorce. Financial stress, stress from illnesses and stress from other situations can weigh down a marriage and even lead to divorce. For example, did you know that divorce rates were around 6% higher in marriages where wives were diagnosed with cancer, heart disease, lung disease or another similar illness? Interestingly, when husbands fell ill, the divorce rates did not go up in the study.

Another major stressor is a job change. Perhaps you once made $100,000 a year, but you had to take a new job after you were laid off from yours. It was found in a study by researchers at Ohio State University that men who were unemployed were more likely to leave their partners. Unemployed men were also more likely to be left by their spouses.

Financial stress, in general, has a negative impact on marriages. Working too much, working too little and struggling to get by can all lead to divorce. Why? Partners begin to feel isolated, resentful and unhappy, so they decide that it is time to move on.

What should you do if stress is weighing on your marriage?

If you can reduce the stress you’re under or that is affecting your marriage, it may not be necessary for you to turn to a divorce. However, if the stress in your life has already taken its toll, it may be time to talk to your attorney about filing for divorce and moving on.