Loneliness, Lack of Social and Emotional Support, and Mental Health Issues 2022

The objectives of this study were to assess the association between social connection and mental health among U.S. adults and to determine the prevalence of loneliness, lack of social and emotional support, and mental health issues by demographic characteristics, including sexual orientation and gender identity. Prevalence estimates for stress, frequent mental distress, and history of depression were significantly higher among adults who reported loneliness and lack of social and emotional support than among those who did not. Prevalence was significantly higher among those who identified as gay, lesbian, bisexual, and something other than straight than among those who identified as straight.