Satisfying relationships not only make us happy, but they also have an impact on our long-term health in the same way that getting enough sleep, eating well, and avoiding smoking do. Many studies have found that happy relationships are linked to improved health, happiness, and even a longer life. In fact, some research suggests that being in a relationship might actually give you an edge when it comes to living a healthy life. For example, one study of more than 2,000 men and women aged 18 to 100 found that those who were married or in love were less likely to die over a four-year period than those who were single. The researchers concluded that having a loving relationship may be better for your health than not exercising at all or drinking too much alcohol. Another study involving more than 10,000 people between the ages of 20 and 100 found that those who were married or in love were less likely to die over a two-year period than those who were single. The researchers concluded that having a loving relationship may be better for your health than not exercising or taking care of yourself or drinking too much alcohol. Finally, another study of more than 6,000 adults between the ages of 19 and 98 found that those who were married or in love were less likely to die over a five-year period than those who were single.