When you got married, you each committed the rest of your life to the other, vowing to care for each other regardless of the circumstances. However, you may not have fully grasped what that might look like, or how devastating that commitment could become.
Studies suggest declining health may lead to divorce. Men tend to marry women younger in age and, therefore, females are more likely to experience the end of a marriage due to becoming a widow. However, either party’s health concerns may contribute to divorce.
Three ways illness can contribute to the dissolution of marriage
Undoubtedly, chronic disease can have detrimental effects on an individual and, as a result, a relationship. When you are unwell, your mood may be affected and your sexual activity may decrease, thereby increasing conflict due to unmet desires.
Other ways an illness might lead to the demise of your marriage include:
- The loss of your income while receiving medical treatment
- Your spouse may become your primary caregiver, and caregiving can have a stressful effect on your relationship
- The prospect of significant medical expenses may seem overwhelming
Recovery and long-term disability rates depend on a variety of factors. Therefore, so does the potential dissolution of your marriage, should significant illness occur.
There is little research to provide definitive statistics on the effect illness can have on a marriage. However, taking care of yourself could do more than increase your longevity. Remaining in good health may also result in more opportunities to protect the health of your marriage.