“Unmarried and Unhappy?” What Science Says About Singles and Depression

Cross-national research assessed individuals from different countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Korea, and Mexico, and analyzed a significant amount of information. Its findings conclusively revealed that unmarried people are prone to depressive symptoms. This large, cross-cultural study provided an understanding of how depression relates to marriage.

What else did the study find?

Other than this general conclusion, the research examined more specifically the specific factors that increase the risk of depression. A few risk factors decide the size of the risk. Many indicators suggest that depression is due to a number of circumstances in solitary individuals.

It varies with the gender factor. Unmarried males are more likely to show symptoms of depression than unmarried females. According to the authors, this can be because they have fewer systems of social support and are made to feel such social pressures toward marriage and achieving financial security. Educational background constitutes the second one.

Ironically, whereas other singular persons are likely to experience low rates of depression, those possessing a higher degree of education, the researchers discovered, are very prone to becoming depressed. These people are at the mercy of the high professional expectations of other members of the society. They have a lot of stress at work and do not have the emotional support that comes with having a spouse. Last but not least, it has been found that singles often engage in highly dangerous practices such as smoking and binge drinking. These practices heighten the chances of depression. 

Conclusion

The study revealed that marriage enhances mental stability and even minimizes bad lifestyle choices. The researchers also noted that drinking and smoking can heighten the risk of depression. In fact, a lack of support exacerbates depression such that anything stressful is difficult to handle. Still, the spouse in marriage can be the source of social, emotional, or even financial support, all of which would be helpful in reducing excessive stress.