Premature death is caused by many factors such as health issues, accidents, and lifestyle choices. However, there are three common lifestyle choices that are considered the top contributors to premature death- Smoking, divorce, and alcohol.
In this article, we will discuss these three horsemen of premature death in detail and how to avoid them.
Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide. It is estimated that smoking causes about 7 million deaths each year. Furthermore, it is also related to several cancers such as lung, throat, and mouth cancer.
It increases the risk of heart diseases and stroke.
It is essential to stop smoking or never start if you want to avoid the risk of premature death. There are several products and treatments available for quitting smoking. You can seek help from your healthcare provider or therapist.
Furthermore, creating a support group of family and friends can also be helpful.
Divorce
Divorce can lead to a loss of self-identity, a decrease in social support, and an increase in stress.
Divorcees often deal with feelings of loneliness, apathy, and anxiety, which can increase the risk of developing mental illnesses such as depression or substance abuse. Many studies have found that divorced individuals are more likely to die early than people who are not divorced.
Therefore, it is essential to seek professional help to heal and move on after a divorce. Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments to deal with emotional issues associated with divorce. It can help in managing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Joining a support group of people who have gone through a divorce can also be helpful.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption is related to several health issues such as liver diseases, high blood pressure, cancer, and mental health issues. It is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide.
Excessive drinking can lead to a loss of judgment and can lead to risky behaviors such as drunk driving or violence.
The best way to avoid premature death related to alcohol is to drink in moderation or avoid it altogether.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends men to drink no more than four drinks per day and women to drink no more than three drinks per day. Furthermore, it is essential to seek professional help if you think you have an alcohol addiction or are having trouble controlling your drinking habits.
Conclusion
Smoking, divorce, and alcohol are the three main contributors to premature deaths. The lifestyle choices we make can have a significant impact on our health.
Quitting smoking or never starting, seeking professional help after a divorce, and drinking in moderation can help you avoid the risk of premature death. Seeking help from healthcare providers, therapists, or support groups can help you deal with these issues.