Divorce is difficult for everyone, not just in Illinois but everywhere in the nation. Could it be hazardous to your health as well? A recent review conducted at the University of Arizona of more than 30 studies says it's possible. According to researchers, risks associated with getting divorce are in line with other known public health risks such as heavy drinking, obesity and smoking.

This is not to say that a divorce will guarantee an early grave. In fact, three-fourths of divorced people go on to remarry, and many who are divorced will have lives that are satisfying to them. However, researchers suggest that about 10 percent of divorced people have a difficult time with the adjustment, leading to unhappiness, weight gain and depression.

Researchers say that there is a 31 percent risk of early death by divorced men compared with married men; for women, the figure was 18 percent. Experts think this is for multiple reasons--women tend to live longer than men anyway. But it's also a behavioral issue rather than just a biological one.

In a marriage, women are often the partners who are more responsible for keeping tabs on a family's health. More frequently than not, say the researchers, it's the wife who reminds the husband to go to the doctor, to not eat so much red meat and to generally take care of himself, rather than the other way around.

Regardless of the implications, there's no doubt that divorce is a life-changing event for everyone involved. An experienced divorce lawyer can provide support and assistance during those difficult times.

Source: USA Today, "UA study: Divorce can raise risk of early death," Anne Ryman, Jan. 10, 2012