Individual social capital and psychosis: secondary analysis of AESOP data for Nottingham

Social capital is a complex and multidimensional construct, which has been used widely in the social sciences, and which focuses attention on non-monetary resources and relationships. The aim of this analysis study was to test the feasibility of deriving social capital variables from an epidemiological dataset, to explore associations between social capital and psychosis and to investigate the utility of the concept for understanding and treating mental illness. We set out to derive social capital variables from an existing epidemiological study, and tested their associations with first episode psychosis. Associations were found between psychosis and one form of social capital, active engagement in social activities. We conclude that social capital is a promising construct that can be utilised in analysing social dimensions of mental illness. Secondary analysis is possible, but longitudinal surveys with comprehensive measures of social capital and mental health are needed.