Exploring Associations Between Well-Being, Mental Distress, and Five Dimensions of Social Capital in Rural Georgia

Background: Understanding the relationship between social capital, mental health, and well-being is important for advancing health equity in rural communities. We examined 5 individual-level dimensions of social capital and their relationship with well-being and mental distress in rural Georgia. Methods: Mail-in population survey data were collected from 6 rural Georgia counties (n = 1374) from December 2018 to May 2019. We conducted bivariate and multivariable analyses, controlling for county. Results: Social capital was significantly associated with improved well-being and inversely associated with mental distress. Conclusion: Findings support research that strengthens social capital through trust-building, strengthening neighborhood ties, and offering civic engagement opportunities.