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.