Exploring Associations Between Well-Being, Mental Distress, and Five Dimensions of Social Capital in Rural Georgia
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Understanding the relationship between social capital, mental health, and well-being is important for advancing health equity in rural communities. We examined 5 individual-level dimensions of social capital and their relationship with well-being and mental distress in rural Georgia. METHODS: Mail-in population survey data were collected from 6 rural Georgia counties (n = 1374) from December 2018 to May 2019. We conducted bivariate and multivariable analyses, controlling for county. RESULTS: Social capital was significantly associated with improved well-being and inversely associated with mental distress. CONCLUSION: Findings support research that strengthens social capital through trust-building, strengthening neighborhood ties, and offering civic engagement opportunities.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Health disparities and outcomes
Social Capital and Networks
Community Health and Development
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Family & Community Health
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 49
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 192–196
- Publication date
- 6 May 2026
- Language
- EN