Longitudinal change and association between four types of social support and mental health among low-income U.S. veterans.

AIMS: This study sought to examine how perceived social support changes over time for U.S. veterans and how social support relates to their mental health longitudinally.

METHODS

Data from a nationally representative sample of 783 low-income U.S. veterans in 2021-2023 were analyzed to examine changes and correlates of four different types of social support (Emotional/Informational Support, Tangible Support, Affectionate Support and Positive Social Interaction) over 1 year. Weighted logistic mixed models were conducted.

RESULTS

The majority of veterans reported no change in their level of perceived social support, but about 18%-26% reported either an increase or decrease (about evenly split about increase/decrease) in their perceived level of one of the four types of social support. High levels of the four types of social support were associated with being married and a lower likelihood of screening positive for depression. Other differential associations were found between sociodemographic characteristics and some types of social support.

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm the value of assessing perceived social support among veterans with low socioeconomic status who may have mental health issues.