What condition is characterized by individuals dying an average of 25 years earlier than the general population?

The characteristic of individuals dying an average of 25 years earlier than the general population specifically applies to severe mental illness. This discrepancy in life expectancy is often attributed to a variety of factors that affect both physical and mental health in this population. People with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, frequently encounter barriers to accessing healthcare, may experience the effects of stigma, and may have difficulty maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Additionally, they often suffer from co-occurring physical health conditions that go untreated or inadequately managed. These include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, which are prevalent in this group. The overall impact of these combined factors contributes significantly to the reduced life expectancy observed among individuals with severe mental illness, making this the correct answer in the context of the question.