Depression and chronic health conditions among Latinos: The moderating and mediating role of social networks

Background. Research suggests an association between chronic health conditions and depression among Latinos. Although characteristics of the social network have been linked to both chronic health conditions and depression, its role between physical and mental health among Latinos remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to: (1) explore the moderating and mediating role of the social network between chronic health conditions and depression, and (2) evaluate gender differences in these relationships.

Methods. Cross-sectional self-report data from the San Diego Prevention Research Center’s (SDPRC) community survey were used. Separate multivariate linear regression models were tested using the log of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression as the dependent variable for each gender group and the total sample.

Results. Participants (N=393) were 44 years old (± 17), predominantly female (73%), married (60%), unemployed (54%), and born outside the US (77%). Males with diabetes reported fewer depressive symptoms when there was a lower percentage of women in the social network (moderation). Among all participants, hypertension and having multiple conditions were related to more depressive symptoms mainly because of a higher percentage of women in the network (mediation). Finally, males with hypertension reported more depressive symptoms when there were longer-lasting relationships in the network (moderation).

Conclusions. Findings suggest an important though negative role of women and long-time social network members in the mental health of Latinos, and especially Latino men with chronic conditions. Interventions should aim to improve the support provided by women and long-time friends/family to Latinos with chronic health conditions.