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.