The role of loneliness in mediating the relationship between financial strain and mental health: exploring gender differences in a UK longitudinal study

Summary

Objectives:
This study explores the association between financial strain and loneliness over time, investigates loneliness as a mediator in the relationship between financial strain and mental health, and examines the influence of gender.

Study design:
Longitudinal study.

Methods:
Using data from six waves (2017–2023) of the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS), which includes 34,535 participants (154,316 person-years), this study employs fixed-effects regression models.

Results:
Financial strain is significantly associated with increased loneliness over time (b = .155, p < .001). Loneliness partially mediates the relationship between financial strain and mental health, accounting for approximately 15 % of the effect. Notably, the relationship between loneliness and mental health is moderated by gender (b = .120, p < .001), with women experiencing more severe negative effects. Conclusions: These findings suggest that alleviating financial strain could reduce loneliness and its detrimental effects on mental health. Addressing financial and social stressors is essential for public health strategies. Implementing gender-sensitive approaches is critical for addressing specific vulnerabilities, particularly among women.