According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. There are many available treatments, including medication and psychotherapy, which have long been considered the gold standard of treatment for depression. However, there is growing evidence that social isolation is a contributing factor to the development of depression and impacts its course. As described in an article of The Scientific Mind by Cruwys, Haslam, and Dingle (2014), recent studies suggest that identifying with family and/or feeling part of a cohesive “unit” is highly protective against depression. What’s more, in addition to protecting the healthy from developing depression, group membership has also been found to aid the recovery of individuals who are already depressed.
Interestingly, the “group” membership in these studies included everyday social groups, from support groups for surgery patients to educational groups for students. Thus it appears that social connection itself, rather than a specific therapeutic format, is beneficial to mental wellness. One can gain the benefits of social connection through work, family, or even social or exercise groups. Joining one of these groups is a cost-effective addition to other treatments for depression, or a great way to maintain current mental wellness.