Relationships are a vital part of human life. Whether it’s a romantic relationship or a platonic friendship, relationships contribute significantly to people’s happiness and well-being.

While relationships can be wonderful, they can also be challenging. One of the most critical factors that determine the success of a relationship is longevity. Relationships that stand the test of time are often considered to be healthy and fulfilling.

In this article, we will take a look at what studies say about relationship status and longevity.

Marriage

Marriage is often considered the gold standard of relationships. Research shows that married couples tend to have better health, higher levels of happiness, and live longer than their unmarried counterparts.

A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that people who remained married throughout the 20-year study period experienced an average of 10% longer life than those who stayed single, divorced, or widowed.

Unmarried Couples

While marriage has been found to have a positive impact on health and overall well-being, unmarried couples in long-term relationships also experience similar benefits.

A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that unmarried couples who had been together for at least three years reported similar levels of happiness and satisfaction with life as married couples. Furthermore, they also had better psychological and physical health than single individuals.

Divorce

Divorce is often associated with negative outcomes, including poorer physical and mental health. However, the effects of divorce on longevity are mixed.

Some studies suggest that divorced individuals have a higher risk of mortality, while others find no significant association. A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that for women, being divorced or widowed was associated with a higher risk of mortality than being married.

However, for men, being widowed was associated with a higher risk of mortality than being divorced or married.

Remarriage

Remarriage is common among divorcees and widows. While remarriage has been found to have many positive outcomes, including better mental health and social support, its impact on longevity is mixed.

Some studies suggest that remarriage can increase the risk of mortality, while others find no significant association. A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that remarried women had a higher risk of mortality than continuously married women, but no differences were found for men.

Conclusion

Relationship status plays a critical role in individuals’ well-being and longevity. While marriage has been found to have a positive impact on health and well-being, unmarried couples in long-term relationships also experience similar benefits.

Divorce and remarriage have a mixed impact on individuals’ health and longevity, with some studies suggesting a higher risk of mortality and others finding no significant association. Overall, it’s essential to foster healthy and fulfilling relationships, regardless of relationship status, to improve individuals’ well-being and longevity.