Access to Social Capital and Social Support Among South East Asian Women With Severe Mental Health Problems: a Cross-Sectional Survey

BACKGROUND: Migrant groups in the UK are at an increased risk of experiencing psychosis. In particular, South East Asian women are substantially more at risk of mental illness than men. Perceived social support and access to social capital are two important psychosocial factors, which may explain this differential risk. AIMS: This study aimed to explore if migrant status was associated with the perception of social support and access to social capital of Punjabi women suffering from enduring mental illness. METHOD: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of a homogeneous group of Punjabi women (n = 54). Outcome measures included the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and Resource Generator-UK (RG-UK). RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the two generations on our outcome measures. However, univariate analysis revealed an association of socio-economic and demographic variables with the MSPSS and RG-UK. Linear regression confirmed that being employed, living with others and human capital predicted increased access to social capital. CONCLUSIONS: Intervening to help this vulnerable group to enhance their social skills and to develop their social networks may improve their access to social capital and promote their recovery from mental illness.