A major study in 2011 found that being married lowered the risk of premature death by 15 per cent. The previous year research by the World Health Organisation found marriage could reduce the risk of anxiety and depression and those who tied the knot were much less likely to suffer the blues than those who stayed single.
In 2014, there were more than 3 million cohabiting partnerships, and 12.5 million married couples in the UK. Although many couples are choosing to delay getting married, there are still many good reasons for getting wed.
Studies have shown that marriage is linked to lower levels of disease. Wedded couples tend to drink less, smoke less and eat more healthily. Added to which joint financial security provides a buffer against life’s stressful and unpredictable events. Couples in long term marriages tend to have double the income of those who stay single!
Reports show that married people are less depressed compared to singles as having someone to share your problems with greatly aids ones mental health. Loneliness on the other hand tends to exacerbate it unless the individual has a strong, supportive network of close friends.
So there it is, despite a seemingly dying trend, marriage is good for your health so get out there and share the love!