A new study has found that remaining single for an extended period during young adulthood can have a detrimental impact on one’s overall well-being. The research, conducted by researchers at the University of Zurich in Switzerland, examined the responses of over 17,000 teenagers and young adults in Germany and the United Kingdom.
The study revealed that individuals who stay single for a prolonged period experience increasing feelings of loneliness and a greater decline in life satisfaction. This trend is particularly pronounced during people’s late twenties, a time when symptoms of depression also tend to rise.
“Overall, our findings show that remaining single for a prolonged period in young adulthood is associated with moderate risks to well-being,” explained Michael Krämer, a senior researcher on the project.
The researchers identified several factors that contribute to an individual’s likelihood of remaining single for longer. Men, those with higher levels of education, and those with lower current well-being and who live alone or with a parent were more likely to stay single for an extended period.
Interestingly, the study also highlighted the importance of entering a first romantic relationship. Respondents who had their first partnership reported higher life satisfaction and felt less lonely, both in the short and longer term. However, the longer people wait to enter their first relationship, the longer they tend to remain single.
“This suggests that entering a first relationship may become more difficult when people are in their late 20s – especially since lower well-being also increases the likelihood of remaining single for longer,” Krämer said.
The negative health consequences of loneliness have been well-documented. Loneliness can raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol, putting individuals at risk of vascular, immune system, and heart problems. Other associated health risks include high blood pressure, dementia, diabetes, stroke, suicide, and premature death.
“We know the effects stress has on the body, and loneliness is extremely stressful,” said psychologist Dr. Adam Borland. “If we’re experiencing loneliness, we don’t necessarily take care of ourselves the way we should. And that can lead to health issues.”
The findings from this study underscore the importance of fostering healthy social connections, particularly during the critical years of young adulthood. As the research suggests, remaining single for an extended period can have far-reaching implications for an individual’s overall well-being and long-term health.