University of Queensland research has found building a sense of community is key to improving people’s mental health, particularly in low socio-economic suburbs.
Professor Alex Haslam from UQ’s School of Psychology is part of a research team that modeled the effect of social and psychological factors, and identified a strong but complex link between where people live and their mental health.
The researchers integrated the findings of more than 50 studies conducted with community groups globally, including sports clubs, charities, men’s sheds, choirs and other hobby groups.
Professor Haslam said the research showed community-based initiatives designed to improve health and well-being were most effective when they contributed to neighborhood identity-building.