Research-based studies that inform and influence our work.

Loneliness and social isolation significantly raise the risk of depression, anxiety, suicidality, and dementia. Research shows that frequent social connection—especially confiding in others—is the strongest protective factor against depression among

Loneliness and social isolation significantly raise the risk of depression, anxiety, suicidality, and dementia. Research shows that frequent social connection—especially confiding in others—is the strongest protective factor against depression among more than 100 studied factors. People who connect socially more often have about a 24% lower chance of developing depression six to eight years later, even if they’ve experienced traumatic events. Strong social ties also likely reduce the risk of anxiety, suicidality, and dementia.

This review identifies key protective factors for refugee mothers: access to safe spaces, language support, advocacy, and opportunities for community-building. Practitioners can help by providing information and resources—preferably in mothers’ nativ

This review identifies key protective factors for refugee mothers: access to safe spaces, language support, advocacy, and opportunities for community-building. Practitioners can help by providing information and resources—preferably in mothers’ native languages—that connect them with others from their own cultural communities. Having frontline workers who speak refugees’ languages is essential for helping mothers understand their rights, available resources, and paths to connection. The review also highlights major vulnerabilities, including gender-based violence, language barriers, and mental health challenges, and notes the lack of research focused specifically on mothers rather than children.

Many countries focus newcomer services on employment, language training, and civic integration—leaving those outside the workforce (especially women, refugees, the elderly, and low-literacy migrants) at high risk of social isolation. This report argu

Many countries focus newcomer services on employment, language training, and civic integration—leaving those outside the workforce (especially women, refugees, the elderly, and low-literacy migrants) at high risk of social isolation. This report argues that integration must extend beyond traditional employment, highlighting effective small-scale programs in OECD countries. Helpful approaches include “work-adjacent” activities (volunteering, crafts, cooking, gardening) and nonwork initiatives (sports, arts, mentorship, peer support) that build social ties between newcomers and locals. While supporting socially isolated groups benefits society, these gains are long-term and diffuse, making investment difficult given limited resources and limited political support.