Unraveling the Impact of Widowhood Duration on Depression: Does Time Heal All Wounds?
Issued Date
2024-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
10105395
eISSN
19412479
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85190434051
Journal Title
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health (2024)
Suggested Citation
Huang X., Tey N.P., Lai S.L. Unraveling the Impact of Widowhood Duration on Depression: Does Time Heal All Wounds?. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health (2024). doi:10.1177/10105395241244960 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/98083
Title
Unraveling the Impact of Widowhood Duration on Depression: Does Time Heal All Wounds?
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Corresponding Author(s)
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Abstract
China’s aging population has witnessed a surge in widowed older adults, raising concerns about their mental health. Losing a spouse is a profoundly distressing experience with enduring effects on well-being. Despite the proverbial belief in time’s healing power, existing studies often neglect the potential decline in depressive symptoms during widowhood. Drawing data from the 2015 and 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study delves into the impact of widowhood duration on depression among 8370 older adults and uncovered significantly higher depression scores among widowed individuals, particularly in the initial 3 years. The research reveals that widowhood contributes to heightened depression levels even after accounting for sociodemographic factors. Although the depressive impact lessens over time, it persists beyond 3 years, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and support for this vulnerable population.