Divorce and Early Death: What You Need to Know

As a thanatologist, my work delves into the intricate and often delicate realm of mortality and its various facets. Recently, I came across a study that piqued my interest—a study shedding light on an unexpected connection between divorce and early mortality rates. It's widely acknowledged that divorce ranks as the second most stressful life event, following closely behind the loss of a loved one. This means that the emotional toll it exacts is profound and significant, to the point that it can even impact one's longevity. The statistics are eye-opening: For every 100,000 people, approximately 1,363 divorcees experience early mortality, compared to just 779 among those who remain in a married union. This revelation prompts us to delve deeper into the ways divorce might influence our long-term health.