The process of divorce can be stressful for anyone. Questions of asset division, spousal maintenance, child support and child custody can be taxing. For some people, they can even lead to physical ailments like high blood pressure or potentially risky behavior like excessive alcohol consumption and overeating.

Scientists at the University of Arizona recently completed a meta-analysis review of more than 30 studies worldwide to determine what correlation, if any, exists between divorce and health. These various studies covered married and divorced people over a period of more than 11 years.

Scientists say their analysis showed that the age of death is substantially lower in those who have been through a divorce compared to their married counterparts. The risk of early death for these divorced people was similar to people who smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol or are overweight.

It is not unlikely that some of the health risks can be attributed to stress. In cases where the divorce is complicated, stress levels can be extremely high. Stress is a leading cause of physiological problems like depression and anxiety. When these are allowed to continue for the long-term, they can lead to other health problems.

The good news from the study came when University of Arizona researchers found that people who had completed the divorce process were satisfied with their lives. The lead author of the research was quick to caution people against assuming the worst if they are going through a divorce. According to some studies, only 10 percent of divorced people reported having continuing emotional difficulties after the divorce process was completed. Other research has found that about 75 percent of divorced individuals end up marrying again, and most lead happy lives.

If you are considering a divorce or already going through the process, it is important to remember that your health should always be a priority. Keeping that in mind could go a long way toward ensuring a long and happy life after a divorce.

Source: USA Today, "UA study: Divorce can raise risk of early death," January 10, 2012