Do social programmes contribute to mental well-being? The long-term impact of unemployment on depression in the United States

Background Important evidence about the mental health effects of unemployment exist; however, little is known about the possible protective effects of various social interventions or about their long-term impact. This study examines the longterm consequences that different types of social programmes, i.e, entitlement and means-tested benefits, might have as regards ameliorating a negative mental health impact of unemployment among women and men. Methods Multiple regression models were used to analyse panel data collected in the National Survey of Families and Households in 1987 and 1992. In all 8029 individuals interviewed in both 1987 and 1992 were included in the analysis. A depression index was created from the responses to 15 items from the Center for Epidemiological Studies' Depression Scale-D (CES-D) which were included in the survey. Results The receipt of government entitlement benefits by unemployed women is associated with a reduction of depression symptoms in the long term. Men and women not working and receiving means-tested or welfare benefits are more likely to report depression in both the short and long term. Conclusions The study underscores the need for monitoring the impact of welfare reform on mental health.