Alone but not lonely: The relationship between COVID-19 social factors, loneliness, depression, and suicidal ideation

Objective
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been concerns that social distancing may negatively impact mental health, particularly with regards to loneliness, depressive symptoms, and suicidality. The current study explored how aspects of social distancing, communication, and online support from October 2020 to December 2020 related to loneliness, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation.

Method
Participants (n = 216) who self-identified as having mental health diagnoses were recruited and completed questionnaires online.

Results
Findings showed that COVID-19 related social contact, particularly electronic social contact, is associated with decreased loneliness, suicidal ideation, and depression. Online emotional support was significantly associated with decreased loneliness and depressive symptoms. Social distancing practices were not associated with increased loneliness, suicidal ideation, and depression.

Conclusions
Our findings underscore the importance of leveraging electronic methods of social connection, especially among individuals who are at risk for suicide or depression.