Divorce could trigger mental health — Health expert

Apart from the emotional stress, people who go through divorce and do not get the needed support could suffer significant psychological stress which has the potential to exacerbate underlying mental health issues, a mental health professional, Stanley Addaquay, has said.

He said going through or experiencing divorce could make people depressed and anxious, situations that affect mental health.

He has therefore advised people who go through such break of relationship to seek professional support from psychologists or psychiatrists, stressing it was not a crime to do so.

“Going through or being divorced is stressful and can impact one’s health, so seeking support from a psychologist or psychiatrist can also be beneficial for maintaining mental health during and after a divorce,” Mr Addaquay advised.

He was speaking at the second annual summit of the Glorious Women on the Go (GWOGO), an affiliate of the Women's Fellowship of the Christian Worship Centre (Celebration Chapel). 

The summit seeks to empower individuals in navigating the complex emotional, social and spiritual issues surrounding divorce.

Held on the theme: “Finding Strength Within in the Matter of Divorce”, the summit aimed to provide a supportive and holistic experience for patrons, as well as providing a platform for honest discussions, support and counselling for people impacted by the situation. 

Also at the event, Nyaho Medical Clinic offered free breast cancer screenings, reinforcing GWOGO’s commitment to promoting both physical and mental well-being in the community. 

Loss

A Clinical Health Psychologist, Dr Dorcas Ntiamoah Sackey, in her presentation, likened the psychological toll of divorce to the grief that followed the death of a loved one.

She said divorce ranked second only to the death of a spouse in terms of life stress, explaining that “It can lead to depression, anxiety and a profound loss of self-worth. 

“Embracing self-care and seeking support are essential steps in the healing journey,” Dr Ntiamoah Sackey advised.

Communication

A Legal Practitioner, Eric Adjei-Laryea, stressed the importance of open communication in preventing conflicts that often led to divorce.

He said: “Conflict often arises from unspoken issues, early, honest communication can prevent misunderstandings that could eventually damage a marriage. Let your partner know exactly what you want and what you don’t want. 

“Also, couples should also be informed of their legal rights and obligations to navigate the process with greater clarity.”

Tackling social issues

The President of GWOGO, Cassandra Quaye, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to addressing critical social issues impacting families today. 

"This summit is about equipping men, women and families to better understand and navigate the realities of divorce, with a particular focus on its effects on children. At GWOGO, we address issues that are increasingly affecting society, and this year, we felt compelled to tackle divorce given its growing prevalence, both within the church and in the broader community,” she said.