The health perks of being single

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It's true: single people can be happy and healthy By Angela Haupt Editor, Health and Wellness Happy Valentine's Day to everyone who loves love. And may it pass quickly for those who are tapped out on over-the-top displays of romance. Though it might not feel like it today, more people than ever in recent history are single: Nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. are unpartnered, up from 29% in 1990. And about half of those singletons aren’t interested in dating or a relationship. For years, researchers knew very little about who chooses to be single and why, and how the solo life affects health and happiness. But that's beginning to change. I reached out to a few leading singlehood researchers to find out what they've learned. Among their most intriguing insights: People prefer being single for a variety of reasons. Many report that the benefits include having more time for themselves, being able to focus on their goals, and not having anyone else dictate their actions. Being alone doesn't mean being lonely. Research suggests that people who are coupled up often turn inwards to their partners and families—while singles have stronger social ties. “They aren’t just staying home, the way people who live with others often do,” social psychologist Bella DePaulo told me. “They walk out the door and meet other people.” There's still a stigma. Even as more people choose to go solo, single-shaming persists. If you're feeling it today, take DePaulo's advice: to "live your single life fully, joyfully, and unapologetically." READ MORE   Share the story

What else to read Teens Girls Are Facing a Mental Health Epidemic. We’re Doing Nothing About It By Jean M. Twenge A new report from the CDC shows the shocking rates of mental health issues for teen girls. Jean Twenge explains what's causing it Read More » Equatorial Guinea Confirms First Outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease By Associated Press The World Health Organization says that Marburg, an Ebola-related virus, caused at least nine deaths in the Western African country. Read More » 5 Ways Love Is Good for Your Health By Jamie Ducharme A growing body of scientific research is proving that love comes with some solid health benefits, including stress reduction and longevity. (Originally published in 2018.) Read More » If You’re Feeling Anxious, Try This 2,000-Year-Old, Neuroscience-Backed Hack By Julia Hotz Imagining the worst that can happen through dedicated 'worry time' can help stop anxiety in its tracks. Read More » Why You Shouldn't Love Your Kids More Than Your Partner By Belinda Luscombe Research strongly suggests that children whose parents love each other are much happier. (Originally published in 2019.) Read More »

AN EXPERT VOICE “For people who might be resistant to engage in traditional psychological therapies, there are benefits which can be had through physical activity.” —Jennifer Thomas, exercise and mental health researcher at Cardiff Metropolitan University

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