The bride’s pure white wedding dress makes the white cloak of the doctor seem distant; this observation is not just a poetic expression but rather a conclusion from a study. There are many reasons people enter marriage: for love, for social status, for financial security… and also for health.
American researchers followed 493 women over a lengthy period of 13 years, comparing married women or those cohabiting with partners to single, widowed, or divorced women. These participants underwent tests to analyze physiological indicators (blood pressure, cholesterol…) and answered a questionnaire regarding family life and satisfaction levels. The results obtained are truly impressive for couples:
Healthier Hearts: Married women in happy family situations have a lower risk of heart disease. Their blood pressure and cholesterol levels are better compared to those in less harmonious relationships or single women. Their physical measurements are also superior, and generally, they are not prone to obesity.
More Relaxed Minds: Mental disturbances are less common, with lower rates of depression and anxiety. Marriage also tends to make women gentler, less prone to anger, or stress. There is a clear distinction in mental health issues between happy couples and those who are not. Women are particularly sensitive to the family atmosphere; any discord between spouses directly affects their mood.
How can we explain the undeniable benefits mentioned above? Numerous hypotheses have arisen, with some suggesting that the presence of a man plays a role. This notion has been early affirmed by our folk literature, as reflected in the proverb: “Like a hat without a strap/ Like a boat without a rudder, like someone without a partner.” Is it because it promotes a hygienic lifestyle? Sociological studies show that when in a family, eating habits become regular and balanced, leading to better health. Is it due to material needs being met? Many statistics indicate that a family’s purchasing power is higher than that of single individuals.
According to scientists, being single is a risk factor for psychological issues, comparable to an incompatible marriage. Numerous studies have explored the benefits of marriage and consistently concluded that it seems the two genders were created to live together, and marriage retains its positive value despite the various living arrangements in modern society (cohabitation, trial marriages, alternative marriages).
However, marriage only truly brings health benefits when both partners are committed to building a happy shared life: this involves lifelong exploration of one another, avoiding prolonged disagreements, respecting each other’s personalities while acknowledging personal shortcomings (such as alcohol addiction…), sharing responsibilities, and having knowledge about sexual health…
Dr. ĐÀO XUÂN DŨNG
