While divorce can be extremely difficult, it is sometimes the best option for you and your family. A new relationship study, for example, has pinpointed one reason why divorce might be a good choice in some situations: serious depression has been linked to having unsupportive spouses. If your mental health is suffering due to your relationship, divorce may be one solution to the issue.
According to a new study conducted by Dr. Alan Teo at the University of Michigan, people who have critical spouses or long-term partners are significantly more likely to be depressed than people who are single.
The study examined the mental health of 4,642 American adults from the ages of 25 to 75. The study participants, who were questions twice, one decade apart, were asked about the relationship, their spousal support, and their depression. When asked about their romantic partners, participants were asked to detail how well they communicated, how well they could trust each other, and how often they felt criticized or let down.
The study, which was recently published in PLOS ONE, found that one in seven people in a very unsupportive relationship will develop depression, while only one in fourteen people in a very supportive relationship will develop depression. Generally, about 16 percent of Americans will experience major depression at some point in their lives.
In addition to examining the connection between your romantic relationship and depression, researchers also looked at how relationships with friends and family could affect depression. However, only a weak link was found between others outside of your marriage and your mental health.
If you have questions about your own divorce, contact us today.
