The Importance of Putting Mental Health into Perspective During a California Divorce
At the Law Office of Joyce Holcomb, our Certified Family Law Specialist in San Bernardino knows the challenges our clients face while pursuing divorces in California.
Unfortunately, when the spouse we represent suffers from a mental health disorder, the circumstances that led to the divorce — and the emotionally taxing process — can exacerbate an already fragile reality.
It is important to our law firm that our clients understand that we will not allow their emotional state to be weaponized during their divorce proceedings. That means, we will reject any use of the words “crazy” or “unstable” by their soon-to-be-ex-spouse to undermine their capacity.
Mental health is a serious disease, and it should be acknowledged as such, so our clients can get the emotional and psychological help they need during this challenging time.
Important Facts About Mental Health in the United States
The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 43.8 million adults experience mental illness each year.
According to a professor in the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, many factors can lead to mental illness, including genetics, physical illness or injury, and traumatic life experiences.
Because of these varying factors, one in five Americans has experienced some form of mental illness, with one in 25 experiencing serious mental illness, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Treatment for mental health problems does not only consist of prescribed or over-the-counter medication. Mental health sufferers can successfully use therapy, yoga, meditation, and holistic treatments to help with their symptoms and coping strategies.
It is estimated that between 70-90% of people who seek proper treatment for mental health disorders witness a significant reduction in symptoms.
Most people living with mental illness lead full and productive lives despite their challenges.
Divorce Can Lead to an Increase in Mental Health Symptoms
With or without a mental health disorder, divorce is an incredible stressor for anyone. Typically, both parties lose sleep, weight, and their personal and professional focuses while they navigate their family and legal challenges.
However, for someone who is already suffering from a mental health issue, divorce can cause additional anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms.
Unfortunately, unlike weight or appetite loss, depression can impact the sufferer’s divorce proceedings when the other spouse takes advantage of their emotionally weakened state. Is it fair? Absolutely not. Does it happen? Certainly.
Mental health allegations should never be weaponized inside or outside the courtroom or used to plant the idea that an individual may be unfit to parent.
If you have suffered from mental illness or are currently suffering from mental health issues, be sure to speak with your California divorce attorney opening about your condition. We can help you understand the best way to meet your emotional and psychological needs during the divorce proceedings and protect you from any instances where your spouse may prey upon your vulnerabilities.
Helpful Resources for Mental Health Disorders
- California Mental Health Resources
- California Suicide & Crisis Hotlines
- California’s Local County Mental Health 24-Hour Crisis Intervention Number
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – California
- S. Department of Health & Human Services National Mental Health Crisis Hotline
Contact Our Skilled San Bernardino Divorce Attorney Today for a Free Consultation
If you are worried about how your mental health will be portrayed by your spouse during a California divorce, contact our San Bernardino County Certified Family Law Specialist at the Law Office of Joyce Holcomb by calling (909) 889-7111 today to discuss your concerns, so we can create a customized legal approach for your unique needs.
