Cheating, a common challenge in relationships, can lead to intense emotional distress, with some individuals even contemplating suicide. The impact affects both the betrayed partners and those involved in the affair, creating significant mental health struggles.
For the betrayed individual, discovering a partner’s betrayal triggers intense emotions like rage, powerlessness, and a sense of abandonment. This emotional turmoil can leave them deeply shaken, with some even considering suicide. Surprisingly, those who committed cheating may also experience a similar emotional rollercoaster, dealing with depression, acute anxiety, and thoughts of suicide, especially when facing the possibility of divorce or separation.
Despite the significant impact of cheating on mental well-being, only a few studies have explored the link between suicidal thoughts and the distress caused by relationship issues like cheating. Stephens’ groundbreaking study focused on women with suicide attempt histories, highlighting partner infidelity as a prominent theme linked to suicidal thoughts. Age played a role, with younger participants more prone to suicide attempts in response to specific negative events, while older individuals tended to do so amid long-term conflicts.
Expanding on this, Martin et al. examined the connection between cheating and suicidal behaviour in U.S. Air Force personnel. The study revealed that a significant number of individuals who died by suicide had experienced or committed cheating shortly before. This highlights the swift and lethal consequences of infidelity disclosure on both the betrayed and the straying individuals.
However, existing studies are limited, indicating a crucial need for more research to uncover the specific factors driving suicidality after cheating. Age, personality traits, and relationship duration are potential influencers, warranting a deeper investigation into their intricate interplay. A comprehensive understanding of these factors can lead to targeted interventions and support systems for those facing the emotional challenges of cheating.
Reference:
Rokach A, Chan SH. Love and Infidelity: Causes and Consequences. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Feb 22;20(5):3904. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20053904. PMID: 36900915; PMCID: PMC10002055.