Social support and mental health

In this article, we review research and models linking social support to mental health outcomes. Although perceived support has positive influences on mental health, received support has in some contexts demonstrated detrimental links. We discuss potential factors that can influence when receiving support has either beneficial or negative influences on mental health, including stressor, provider, and recipient processes. Sociocultural and technological influences on social support are also discussed, along with work implicating social support with goal pursuit and thriving. Finally, intervention and policy implications of this research are described, including how to be a more effective support provider.