Same sex marriage continues to make news.

A study, just published in the American Journal of Public Health, concludes gay couples who are legally married experience significantly less psychological distress than gay couples who are not in legally-recognized relationships.

Married heterosexuals had the lowest distress levels in comparison. The data were mined from phone interviews done with more than 36-thousand Californians in 2009. Gay marriage was approved there in early 2008; then overturned.

Researchers speculate the mental health benefits of same sex marriage likely stem from a sense of social inclusion and see this as a public health issue.

They say the findings provide strong evidence that, just as with heterosexual marriage, same sex marriage, is associated with mental well-being. Their hope is to see further research that examines the potential health benefits of legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide.

I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV with news from today that can lead to healthy tomorrows.