Social capital and mental health

Abstract

In war aiected populations there is often severe disruption of societal cohesion. Additionally, grief and traumatisation, along with insu⁄cient health services and a lack of security, give rise to an increase of mental health problems. Social capital is potentially a key resource to support post con£ict recovery, and is increasingly considered not merely as a resource supporting economic and social development, but also an important in£uence on population health. However, linkages between social capital and mental health are complex. Therefore, this article begins with an introduction to the construct of social capital, then provides an overview of the main ¢ndings on its relation to health and wellbeing, as well to mental health in general and in post emergency situations. Finally, it explores if social capital may be promoted intentionally, as pursued through a community based sociotherapy programme in Rwanda. While there appears to be a rationale for promoting social capital within post con£ict settings, further work is required, both documenting reliable means of securing it and disentangling pathways of in£uence on social wellbeing and mental health.