Social support and depression during a global crisis

Abstract

Depression rates have risen globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. While social support is a known protective factor, more research is needed to quantify the extent to which social support could reduce depression risk during a global crisis and identify which types of support are most helpful and for whom. We analysed longitudinal data from 69,066 participants in the All of Us Research Program who completed COVID-19 Participant Experience surveys between May and July 2020, including measures of perceived social support and depressive symptoms. Using mixed-effects logistic regression models, we tested associations between social support (overall and its subtypes) and elevated depressive symptoms, and assessed potential effect modifiers. Approximately 16% of participants experienced elevated depressive symptoms. Overall social support was associated with a 55% lower odds of depression. Emotional/informational support and positive social interactions showed strongest protective associations with depression, followed by tangible support. Combinations of support subtypes showed a dose–response gradient, with higher levels across all three subtypes linked to over a sixfold reduction in depression odds. Significant effect modifiers included sex, age, pre-pandemic mood disorder and pandemic-related financial stressors. Enhanced social support across multiple domains could benefit individuals with higher risks for depression, supporting a precision prevention approach.

Using data from a large US population survey, Choi et al. investigated the nuanced associations between perceived social support and the risk for depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.