Health during Relationship Transitions: Policy Implications for Dating, New Parenthood, and Bereavement.

Abstract

Romantic relationships impact individuals' mental and physical health across the lifespan. The link between relationships and health may be especially intertwined during transitions. Examining three seasons of romantic relationships-dating, the transition to parenthood, and bereavement-links each season with health. To best support the health of relationships and the individuals in them, domain-specific policy recommendations address experiences of dating, pregnancy/parenting, and grieving. Broad-scale recommendations cover education, placemaking, research and funding, and community efforts to support individual health across various relational seasons.