In a world full of new relationships and constant changes, divorce remains one of the most painful and challenging experiences ever. Some wonder about the impact of divorce on women compared to men, and whether there is really a difference between them in adapting to these life transitions. A recent controversial study answers this question, revealing results that women face greater suffering in adapting to divorce compared to men. 

In this study, researchers from Chongqing Medical University in China analyzed the patterns of antidepressant use among 228,000 elderly people who experienced divorce or separation between 1996 and 2018 in Finland. The results were somewhat shocking, as the likelihood of using antidepressants increased significantly among women compared to men in the three and six months preceding and following the divorce.

While antidepressant use generally increased for both genders during these difficult periods, the increase was much greater among women, especially those who experienced separation from their life partner. The negative impact is not limited to the period of divorce only, but there is evidence of its chronic implications on women's mental health in the four years leading up to divorce.  

These results highlight the gender differences in experiences of separation and individual adaptation to it. They suggest that familial roles, responsibilities, and economic status can be the main factors explaining these differences. Women may be more exposed to material and social challenges after divorce, which increases life stresses and leads to greater deterioration of their mental health compared to men.

Additionally, the study indicates that men may find more effective outlets to adapt to those life transitions, including entering new relationships faster, which can alleviate the effects of divorce on their mental health. 

In light of these findings, the importance of understanding the social and psychological factors affecting divorce experiences and adaptation becomes evident.