Another study published a year later, conducted by University of Glasgow researchers, tracked 4,000 couples and found surviving spouses were at least 30 per cent more likely to die of any cause in the first six months following the death of their partner, versus those who hadnt lost a spouse.

What is the average life expectancy after a spouse dies?

Fifty of those people died within three months of losing their spouse, 26 died between three and six months later and 44 died between six and 12 months later. Widows and widowers were more likely to die than people whose spouses were still living, on average.

How do you survive losing your spouse?

Helping Yourself Heal When Your Spouse Diesby Alan D. Allow Yourself to Mourn. Recognize Your Grief is Unique. Talk Out Your Thought and Feelings. Expect to Feel a Multitude of Emotions. Find a Support System. Be tolerant of Your Physical and Emotional Limits. Take Your Time With Your Spouses Personal Belongings.More items

Is grieving a mental illness?

Grief is typically an emotional rollercoaster, but sometimes this chronic grief can develop into a mental health disorder. Some common symptoms of chronic grief include: Prolonged sadness on a daily basis. Extreme focus on the loss.