Scoping Review of Risk & Protective Factors
The growth of publications on loneliness and social isolation has been exponential in the past two decades, with just 86 publications on loneliness appearing in the PubMed database in 2000, while 1,456 appeared in 2020. Yet, of the 1,456 sources, there were 19 on loneliness and schizophrenia, 5 related to loneliness and bipolar disorder and 513 on loneliness and depression. Thus, while social isolation and loneliness appear frequently in scientific literature overall, those that focus on people with SMI are less prevalent, yet still represent large numbers of publications, particularly for depression. This research project will conduct a scoping review of empirical research to identify risk and protective factors for social isolation and loneliness among adults with serious mental illnesses.
Experiential Factors Contributing to Social Isolation & Loneliness
Current research suggests that the experience of loneliness fluctuates over the course of the day, yet the relationship between dispositional and momentary loneliness remains poorly understood. Additionally, the degree to which one feels that they matter and are valued and contribute value likely varies across daily experience, as well as varies between people. This research project will use experience sampling method to identify the day-to-day experience of loneliness and mattering among adults with serious mental illnesses, to inform intervention development.
Trial of Need to be Needed Intervention
The intervention study will focus on reducing isolation and loneliness by improving one’s sense of mattering. Specifically, the intervention will focus on using acts of kindness, and experiencing gratitude through volunteering. Using the CIVIC Framework (Hare-Duke et al., 2021) and the Mattering Wheel (Prilleltensky, 2020) as a foundation, this intervention is designed to develop relationships of equality and reciprocity that extend beyond the intervention period.
Utilization & Dissemination
Over the course of this Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project (DRRP), look for both traditional (manuscripts, presentations, manuals) as well as technologically advanced (Podcasts, tweetchats and infographics) activities. Be sure to visit the publications and presentations link, as well as our social media links.
