The Wire

A new study by the NSW Mental Health Association has identified social isolation as a major factor in mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. Over two months, 456 anonymous participants were asked about their friendships, use of social media, and mental health status. The research, released this week, shows more than two thirds of people with a mental illness had no one they could call a best friend. They were also more likely to have fewer friends, weaker friendships, and depend on social networking tools to communicate.