Social support in childhood and later survival ^{CEFR B2}

A new study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health suggests that steady social support during childhood can reduce the risk of premature death for young people who face serious family or community problems. The research used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, which followed about 20,000 school-aged participants into adulthood. For this analysis the team compared reports from youth ages 11 to 17 with participants' mortality when they were in their 40s. The authors note this is the first study to examine social support among youths facing adverse childhood experiences in relation to premature death.

The researchers found that young people who reported negative childhood experiences and also reported low social support were more likely to die early. Low support was associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance use and reckless behaviour in teens, pathways that likely increase the risk of early death. In contrast, strong support from family, peers or school staff was linked to better long-term survival.

Lead and senior authors emphasise the need for practical, community-level responses. Recommendations include:

• spending quality time with a child during difficult periods,
• giving children opportunities to talk about their feelings,
• connecting them with a consistent, supportive group such as a club,
• and supporting schools to improve belonging and nurturing environments.

"It's only adding to the idea that we are social animals," says Janani Rajbhandari-Thapa, senior author. "Safe and supportive relationships in childhood and adolescence can serve as a critical buffer against these pathways and subsequent long-term health consequences of adversity," adds Kiran Thapa, lead author. The researchers argue that community and school interventions to promote supportive relationships are necessary to reduce preventable deaths.