Research suggests that the impact of divorce varies significantly depending on individual circumstances, but certain trends emerge. While women often initiate divorce (70% of the time according to one source), men frequently experience more pronounced negative consequences in specific areas.
Emotional and Mental Health Impacts
Studies indicate that men are more than twice as likely to suffer from post-divorce depression compared to women. https://www.collinsfamilylaw.com/blog/2020/july/why-is-divorce-more-difficult-for-men-than-women/ This is often coupled with increased anxiety and hypertension. The unexpected nature of a divorce, especially when initiated by the wife, can significantly exacerbate these effects. Conversely, if the person was already content and self-sufficient before the relationship, adjustment tends to be quicker after a breakup. https://www.quora.com/Who-suffer-more-after-divorce Men might also suffer in silence, developing resentment. https://heathbakerlaw.com/how-divorce-changes-a-man/
Financial Implications
While women often bear the brunt of the immediate financial burden post-divorce, https://www.epwealth.com/blog/who-suffers-the-most-financially-in-a-divorce research also shows that men can experience substantial financial setbacks depending on various factors such as pre-divorce income and child support obligations. The financial impact is complex and depends greatly on the specific legal and financial arrangement following the divorce. https://www.quora.com/After-a-divorce-who-suffered-more-the-husband-or-the-wife For example, some studies show men experience increased income after divorce while others indicate women face higher poverty rates. https://www.reddit.com/r/AskFeminists/comments/10d3m3d/do_women_really_benefit_more_from_divorce_than_men/
The Impact on Children
It's important to remember that children are significantly affected by divorce, regardless of the parents' experiences. Their well-being should always be a primary concern in such situations. https://www.reddit.com/r/dating/comments/1bajscx/who_suffers_the_most_from_divorce/
Conclusion
The person who suffers most after a divorce depends heavily on individual circumstances, but research suggests a significant impact on men's mental health and a varying impact on the financial well-being of both genders. Children are also profoundly affected.