Longing to belong : personal social capital and psychological distress in an Australian coastal region
This report explores the relationship between social capital and mental health. It further examines the theory that seven types of community participation - including taking an active interest in current affairs, socialising with household members, friends, extended family and neighbours, taking part in organised community activities and religious observance - are linked to better mental health. The report draws upon the Eurobodalla study, which surveyed 963 residents of Eurobodalla Shire, in coastal New South Wales, to examine the relationships between perceived participation adequacy, participation rates, participation enjoyment, personal social cohesion, and mental health.