Social supports help those with Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD

The newest research reveals positive outcomes for comorbidities.

Russell Peterson | Chief Caring Officer

28 February 2024

A 2022 study by Connolly, Lamont, and Speed revealed that social support can act as a protective factor against symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD. We know from other research that ADHD and Anxiety are expressive forms of Depression and although there are chemical and genetic links, there are many unknown factors. Social support seems to be a factor in improving the outcomes of these conditions, helping individuals to function better and enhance their well being. From the abstract published in the Sage Journal:

"Social support is thought to provide affective and instrumental resources that help individuals cope with adverse life experiences and that stimulate psychological well-being by acting as a protective factor against anxious and depressive disorders (Houtepen et al., 2019). Inversely, research shows that low social support is a predictor of psychological problems and is specifically associated with depression and anxiety (Meshi & Ellithorpe, 2021; Roohafza et al., 2014; Teoh & Rose, 2001)."

This is a big reason DreamLife Destiny is so focused on building community and peer to peer social supports beyond just being supported positively by our Destiny Associates. We believe building community and social engagement through our Clubhouse and other Community Events can help individuals cope better and function at a consistently higher level than without these supports.

Study Link