Divorce has been associated with a variety of psychological and behavioral disorders. Previous studies show that single men have higher rates of mortality, substance abuse, depression, and lack of social support. This directly contradicts the belief that men are somehow less susceptible to psychological trauma than women.
This study serves as a warning sign for us not to follow such unfounded perceptions.
The present study was conducted with a 45-year-old divorced man who met criteria for a depressive episode with anxiety and was encouraged to begin treatment with antidepressants and therapy. He also presented with abdominal complaints and tenderness, suggesting possible gastritis due to a combination of high levels of stress and alcohol consumption.
“Popular perception, various cultures, as well as the media present men as tough, resilient and less vulnerable to psychological trauma than women. However, this study serves as a warning sign for us not to follow such unfounded perceptions. The fact is that men are significantly affected by psychological trauma and negative life events, such as divorces, bankruptcies, wars, and bereavement,” says Dr. Ribwan Shadsigh, who was not part of the study.
Daniel Felix, W. David Robinson and Kimberly Jarzynka, authors of the study, argue that there is an urgent need to recognize and treat divorce-related health problems in men.
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It is worth clarifying that more studies are needed to deepen the impact of such situations and to develop diagnostic and treatment guides for clinicians.
The case study was published in the Journal of Men’s Health and you can .
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