The Relationship Between Perceived Social Support and Positive Mental Health: A Review

Abstract

Perceived social support (PSS), defined as an individual's subjective belief in the availability and adequacy of support from their social network, is a cornerstone construct in understanding psychological well-being. This review synthesizes contemporary evidence on the robust, positive relationship between PSS and positive mental health (PMH), the latter conceptualized not merely as the absence of illness but as the presence of flourishing, emotional well-being, psychological resilience, and life satisfaction. Epidemiological and longitudinal studies consistently demonstrate that higher levels of PSS are associated with and predictive of greater PMH across diverse populations. Key theoretical frameworks, including the Stress-Buffering Model and the Main Effect Model, explain the mechanisms through which PSS operates, protecting against adversity and fostering continuous positive affect and self-worth. The relationship is influenced by moderating factors such as age, gender, culture, and personality traits. Critically, the perception of support availability is often more impactful than received support. Interventions designed to enhance PSS, particularly through strengthening social connections and cognitive restructuring of support appraisals, show efficacy in promoting PMH. This review concludes that fostering PSS is a vital, evidence-based target for public health initiatives and clinical interventions aimed at cultivating population-wide mental health resilience and flourishing.

Keywords: Perceived Social Support, Positive Mental Health, Psychological Well-being, Flourishing, Resilience, Stress-Buffering, Social Determinants of Health.

Received Date: October 20, 2025

Accepted Date: November 11, 2025

Published Date: December 01, 2025

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/537