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

Abstract

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.