Study Links Divorce and Widowhood to Increased Mortality Risk

A new study from Norway suggests that individuals who are divorced or widowed face a higher risk of death compared to those who remain in a partnership. The research analyzed long-term national health data to understand how divorce, separation, or widowhood impacts mortality rates.

Research Findings

The study, published in BMJ Public Health, followed three groups of approximately 20,000 people each from 1984 to 2019. These individuals were either married or living with a partner during that time. The researchers categorized them into three groups: married or cohabiting, divorced or separated, and widowed. They then reviewed death records up until January 2020.

The analysis revealed a consistent link between divorce or breakups and increased mortality across all groups. This connection remained even after accounting for factors like age, gender, health habits, self-rated health, and loneliness. Being widowed was associated with a 14% higher risk of death, with the strongest link observed in the earliest period studied.

Gender Differences and Social Impact

During the second study phase, the association between breakup and mortality was more pronounced among women. Despite showing a connection between living alone and higher mortality risk, the study did not establish a direct causal link.

“Loneliness has significant and severe consequences for individual physical health and emotional well-being,” said M. David Rudd, PhD, professor and director of the Rudd Institute for Veteran & Military Suicide Prevention, although he was not involved in the study.

Rudd emphasized that human relationships are crucial for health and happiness, noting the increasing isolation driven by digital technologies. This research, covering nearly four decades, provides important insights into human behavior, according to Rudd.

Addressing Social Disconnection

The study’s authors highlighted the need to address social disconnection in public health and clinical practice to reduce preventable deaths. They stressed that maintaining social connections, whether romantic or not, is vital for well-being. Building and nurturing relationships are essential to health and survival.

Angelica Stabile, a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital, contributed to the coverage of these findings.