This study investigated the impact of self-compassion and social support on life satisfaction during early adulthood, a developmental period characterized by heightened stress and mental distress. The research aimed to determine whether these factors could mitigate the adverse effects of anxiety, depression, and loneliness on overall life satisfaction.
The study involved 200 college students revealed that both self-compassion and social support significantly enhanced life satisfaction, even in the presence of mental distress. Social support from friends and family had the most substantial positive effect. Additionally, self-compassion traits played a critical role, such as acknowledging shared human experiences and reducing self-criticism. The combination of these factors mitigated the adverse effects of mental distress by over half. Notably, the detrimental impact of loneliness on life satisfaction was eliminated in the presence of high levels of self-compassion and social support.
These results emphasize the significance of interpersonal (social support) and intrapersonal (self-compassion) coping mechanisms in promoting well-being during challenging developmental periods. Higher education institutions can incorporate self-compassion practices into student services and academic curriculums to facilitate students’ ability to perceive adversity as an opportunity for personal growth. Offering brief self-compassion exercises, reflective group activities, and targeted social programs can enhance students’ mental health and interpersonal relationships.
By fostering self-compassion and establishing robust support systems, educators and counselors can facilitate students’ navigation of mental distress, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and resilience. Subsequent research should investigate targeted interventions that integrate self-compassion and social support to optimize their combined advantages.