Social ties, employment and mental health in people with disabilities in Korea: evidence from a 2016-2018 panel survey

Abstract

Background Social connectedness is a critical factor influencing health outcomes, particularly among people with disabilities, who face increased risks of social isolation and poor mental health. This study aimed to examine the effects of interpersonal relationships on subjective health and mental health among individuals with disabilities. Methods We analysed nationally representative panel data of economically active individuals with disabilities in South Korea. Generalized estimating equation models were applied to assess the associations between interpersonal relationship scores and health outcomes, adjusting for sociodemographic and behavioural factors. Results Compared with participants with the highest interpersonal relationship scores (>= 25 points), those with the lowest scores (<= 14 points) had significantly higher odds of reporting poor subjective health (odds ratio [OR] 1.986 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.392 to 2.832], p<0.0001), lower happiness (-0.913 points [95% CI 0.840 to 0.993], p=0.034) and greater odds of experiencing depression (OR 1.959 [95% CI 1.179 to 3.255], p=0.009). Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of social connectedness as a key determinant of mental and subjective health among people with disabilities in Korea.