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6mo ago

Study Finds Unmarried Individuals Face Higher Depression Risk

Research across seven countries suggests cultural and social factors influence depression rates among unmarried people.

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In the UK, the data found that among people who were married, the rate of depressive symptoms was about 2 per cent, less than half that seen in singletons
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Overview

  • Unmarried individuals are up to 79% more likely to experience depressive symptoms compared to their married counterparts, according to a study involving over 100,000 participants.
  • The study highlights that being in a marriage-like relationship can reduce the risk of depression, with cohabiting couples showing similar mental health benefits to married couples.
  • Cultural differences play a role, with unmarried individuals in Western countries like the UK and US facing a higher risk of depression than those in Eastern countries.
  • Men and highly educated individuals in Western nations are particularly vulnerable, which researchers attribute to differing social support networks and societal pressures.
  • While marriage may offer economic and social benefits that reduce depression risk, the study does not imply that marriage directly prevents or cures depression.