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Marriage and Depression Risk: A Global Study
Unmarried individuals show a significantly higher risk of depression, according to a large international study. The study also reveals differences by gender and education level.
Russian
Russia
HealthPublic HealthMental HealthMarriageDepressionSocial Sciences
Kefeng Li
- Which countries were included in the study?
- The study encompassed participants from diverse countries including the US, UK, Mexico, Ireland, South Korea, China, and Indonesia. This broad geographical representation allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between marital status and depression risk.
- Which subgroups showed a particularly high risk of depression in the study?
- The risk of depression was higher among unmarried men and those with higher education levels. The study also revealed that divorced or separated individuals faced a 99% increased risk, while widowed individuals showed a 64% higher risk.
- How does this study differ from previous research on marriage and depression?
- While previous research has linked marriage to a reduced risk of depression, this study distinguishes itself by its large sample size, diverse geographical scope, and consideration of factors such as socioeconomic status and education level.
- What is the main finding of the study regarding marital status and depression?
- A study of over 100,000 people across seven countries found that unmarried individuals have approximately 80% higher odds of experiencing depressive symptoms compared to married individuals.
- What are the potential explanations offered for the lower depression rates among married couples?
- The researchers suggest that the lower depression rates among married couples might be due to increased social support, better access to economic resources, and the positive impact on each other's well-being. However, the study's reliance on self-reported data is a limitation.