Systematic review of 23 studies (2010–2024) on adolescents (ages 10–18) linking online social connection (structure, function, quality) with mental health. Findings highlight nuanced, bidirectional effects: online-only friendships can be protective (esp. for suicidal ideation), social capital in gaming linked to well-being, and gendered effects of active vs. passive use; perceived online support reduces depressed mood when received but can worsen mood if absent.

Two-wave longitudinal survey of adult gamers (n=236) over ~6 months. Partial least squares models: higher baseline trait anxiety predicted declines in online closeness, confiding, and positive interactions; higher depressive symptoms predicted increases in in-person closeness/confiding but decreases in online interaction quality. Strong gaming community integration sometimes coincided with reduced in-person relationship quality.

Commentary drawing parallels between tobacco control and strategies to address loneliness and social isolation, proposing policy, environmental, systems, education, and social-norm approaches to strengthen social connection.

Cross-sectional analysis of 1,225 Black/African American men with T2D linking egocentric network characteristics to negative outcomes (hypo-/hyperglycemic symptoms, ketones). More diabetes-specific discussions associated with more adverse events; general communication and very supportive alters associated with fewer; higher proportions of siblings/extended family/children associated with more adverse outcomes; perceived network physical activity associated with fewer.

Among 1,225 Black/African American men with T2D, higher diabetes self-efficacy was most strongly associated with a greater share of “very supportive” network members and perceived healthy eating among alters; more friends also related positively, while infrequent contact related negatively. Network size and diversity were not associated.