Feature Article
Happy relationships good for health
Nina Chen, Ph.D., CFLE, Human Development Specialist, Jackson County, University of Missouri Extension
Why do healthy relationships matter? Research has already shown
great health benefits of healthy relationships and marriages. For
instance, married people have longer life expectancies than singles,
especially married men. Children who live with their own two married
parents enjoy better physical health than children in other family
structures. Married mothers have lower rates of depression than
single or cohabiting mothers. Several studies show that people who
have a rocky marriage or relationship are likely to experience anxiety
and stress and increased risk of health problems. Researchers at
University College London tracked about 9,000 people for 12 years
and found that negative relationships increase the risk of heart
problems by 34 percent. According to researcher John Gottman, an unhappy
marriage can increase the chances of illness by 35 percent.
Some studies indicated marriage was tied to better survival in
certain cancers such as breast and prostate cancers. A study led
by Dr. John Gore of the University of California, Los Angeles also
showed married patients with bladder cancer had the best survival
odds. Researchers from San Diego State University and the University
of Pittsburgh found high marital satisfaction can benefit women’s
health. The study found that women with happy relationships were
less likely to develop risk factors that lead to cardiovascular
disease compared with other women.
The health benefits attributed to marriage shows what partners
bring into marriage. For instance, couples can benefit from strong
social and emotional support. Knowing that your partner is interested
in the details of your life and cares about you can lessen stress
levels substantially. It matters when a partner neglects his or
her health or struggles at work. Couples work as a team and are
likely to have regular checks-ups or reminders on exercise or other
recommendations that will improve their life or health.
With the pressures of work, children, and chores, it can be difficult
to focus on nurturing healthy relationships. Building and maintaining
a healthy relationship takes time and effort. Here are basic tips
to help couples build a healthy and strong relationship.
- Make time for each other.
- Make a commitment to your relationship.
- Have positive and open communication.
- Be appreciative and affectionate.
- Show interest and care.
- Be supportive.
- Fight fair.
- Take time for yourself.
- Keep romance alive.
- Have a good sense of humor.
- Learn to compromise and forgive
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Last Updated 01/11/2010
