The risk of developing depression could be related to relationship status. This is what an international team of researchers reports.
Now a new, large-scale study shows that living in a marriage not only protects the heart, but also apparently stabilizes the psyche. Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine at Macao Polytechnic University (China) analyzed health data from more than 100,000 people from seven different countries – namely Great Britain, Ireland, USA, Mexico, China, South Korea and Indonesia – and concluded: unmarried people had an almost double as high risk of depressive symptoms as married people.
The results also showed gender differences: single men were more likely to develop depression than single women. According to researchers, a possible explanation for this is the often larger social network of single women compared to single men. Level of education also played a role: Interestingly, single people with a higher level of education were more likely to have depression than those with a lower level of education.
In all cultures examined, it was shown that unmarried people have a higher risk of depression, according to study author Kefeng Li. A decisive factor is loneliness. And: A couple relationship offers more social support and financial security. In addition, a positive influence between partners can increase well-being – provided, of course, that the relationship is happy.
There is currently no comparably extensive data for Germany, but smaller studies in individual age groups point in the same direction. That’s why the new results are also relevant in this country, where one in five people lives alone - and the trend is rising.
Interview with Dr. Emily Chen, Psychologist and Mental Health Researcher, on the Link Between Relationship Status and Depression Risk
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, Dr. Chen. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the fascinating findings from the recent large-scale study conducted by the Faculty of Medicine at Macao Polytechnic University.
Dr. Emily Chen (EC): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about this important topic.
TNE: The study reveals that relationship status may significantly influence the risk of developing depression. Can you summarize some of the key findings?
EC: Certainly! The researchers found a correlation between being in a stable marital relationship and a decreased risk of depression. Essentially, those who were married tended to have better mental health outcomes compared to those who were single, divorced, or in less stable relationships. This suggests that the emotional support and stability provided by a marital bond can play a protective role for mental health.
TNE: That’s intriguing! Why do you think marriage has this stabilizing effect on mental health?
EC: There are several factors to consider. First, marriage often provides an emotional support system. Partners can lean on each other during tough times, sharing burdens and joys, which can contribute to a sense of belonging and security. Additionally, married couples may have more opportunities for social interaction and support networks, which can combat feelings of isolation that contribute to depression.
TNE: Is this relationship beneficial across all demographics, or does it vary by age, gender, or cultural background?
EC: The benefits of marriage or stable relationships can indeed vary. For instance, older adults might experience greater mental health benefits from marriage due to reduced loneliness. However, cultural factors play a significant role, too; in some cultures, marriage may not offer the same social support, or it may come with increased stress. Gender can also influence how individuals experience relationships; men and women may derive different types of emotional support and fulfillment from their partnerships.
TNE: What does this study imply for individuals who are struggling with depression but are not in a relationship?
EC: For those who are single or experiencing relationship difficulties, this study underscores the importance of building a support network. Friendships, family ties, and community connections are all vital. Seeking therapy or engaging in social activities can also help foster a sense of belonging and reduce the isolation that can accompany depression.
TNE: Moving forward, what further research would you like to see on this topic?
EC: I’d love to see longitudinal studies that track individuals over time to better understand how relationship dynamics change and how these changes impact mental health across the lifespan. Additionally, exploring the quality of relationships—whether they are supportive or toxic—could provide deeper insights into how relationships affect mental health.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for shedding light on this critical issue. Your insights into the connection between relationship status and mental health are invaluable.
EC: Thank you for the conversation! It’s an essential topic that deserves ongoing attention.