Three Possible Divorce Benefits for Women

 Posted on March 17, 2015 in Divorce

Although plenty of research and countless Hollywood movies have explored the negative aspects of divorce, there may be benefits to being divorced. If the decision is right for you, you might experience some of these benefits after deciding to move forward with the divorce process. Despite your struggles and efforts to save your marriage, you may find your post-divorce life offers more than you realized.

Being Happier

During and after your divorce, you will certainly experience a range of emotions , but taking this step can actually lead to greater long term happiness. Recent research from Kingston University in London found that women reported higher levels of personal happiness for up to five years after the end of the marriages. The pressure of frequent arguing or the emotional burden of a deteriorating relationship can be devastating to personal happiness, and divorce may help facilitate a brighter future.

Happier Can Mean Healthier

An unhappy relationship can cause high levels of stress which have been shown to contribute to a variety of health-related problems. Studies also have found links between marital stress and increased risk for heart disease, cancer, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and depression. Sometimes, the only way to improve an unhealthy relationship is to end it, and for many, doing so may be the key to improved mental and physical health.

Increased Earning Potential

A study from the University of Connecticut examined more than 40 years of Census Bureau and Social Security surveys to explore the impact of divorce on women’s earnings. The researchers found that divorced women who never remarried enjoyed the the greatest earnings growth potential. These same individuals were more likely to wait longer to draw Social Security benefits, leading to higher lifetime benefits than married women. Retirement also proved easier for the women who delayed their Social Security, as they built more reliable financial security.

By making the difficult decision to divorce, you might face challenges, but you also may create new opportunities. Increased financial potential and increases in your health and happiness may be worth it if you feel like your marriage is beyond repair. If you’re ready to take the next step and speak to a professional about beginning the divorce process, contact an Arlington Heights Divorce attorney at A. Traub & Associates today.