Is Divorce Harder on Men than Women?

Divorce is one of the most devastating things that can happen to someone. It can leave psychological disorders in the couple, including depression and anxiety, grief and anger, and social problems like alcohol abuse, poor parent-child relationships, and poor adult relationships, in general.

While divorce has a negative impact on both men and women, some studies show that it is especially difficult for men. Why?

Does it have to do with society’s macho expectations of men? Let’s find out.

Men have difficulties showing their emotions.

To be a real man, you must be tough and emotionless. You are not allowed to cry over trivial things because that suggests you’re fragile and weak.

These toxic societal expectations have men under so much pressure that it has harmed their relationships with others. It even resulted in them feeling isolated and lonely, especially during divorce.

In connection with that, the professors at the University of South Africa have conducted a study of men’s experiences and challenges with divorce. They found that men find it more difficult to articulate their deepest feelings, emotional pain, insecurities, and fears.

Consequently, men bottle up their emotions, giving others the wrong impression that the divorce isn’t hurting them when, in fact, it’s destroying them mentally and emotionally.

Men receive less emotional support.

According to studies, the notion that men must be strong has gotten so out of hand that they refuse to seek help to maintain their strong image. As a result, they receive less emotional support compared to women who are accustomed to reaching out to their friends and families whenever they have problems.

If you’re experiencing this, know that you can always call for help, especially when your problems are already taking a toll on you. You don’t have to go through it alone. Seek help, if needed.

Men are often given short grieving periods.

Since they aren’t allowed to properly feel and express their emotions, they’re more likely to skip the grieving process, resulting in bottled up anxiety, anger, and resentment.

Some may even jump into a rebound relationship to avoid feeling sad and lonely, only to end up feeling worse.

No matter how tempting it may be, never use someone for your own benefit. You will not only confuse your feelings but you will also hurt others in the process.

If you want to heal and move on, acknowledge your emotions and talk about them. Cry and shout to the world if you must. It’s normal to have ups and downs during the divorce process, but never ignore them to avoid prolonging the trauma and pain.

You can do it.

Going through a divorce is not easy. It not only represents the loss of partnership but also the love, memories, and commitment you shared.

But, no matter how painful it is, always remember that you will get through it. Perhaps not now, but with enough courage and patience, you will heal and move on at the right time.

When that time comes, you will realize that all your pain and grief are worth it because it made you stronger and wiser, giving you a better chance of finding the right love.