Family Strain Predicts Subsequent Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged Adults: Hope Mediates and Self-Compassion Moderates the Relation

Abstract

Introduction: Interpersonal strain is linked with depressive symptoms in middle-aged adults. This study examined 1) the extent to which hope mediates the relation between family strain and depressive symptoms, and 2) whether these indirect effects are conditional on self-compassion. Methods: Self-reported family strain, self-compassion, hope, and depressive symptoms were assessed in a community sample of 762 middle-aged adults aged 40-65. Follow-up measures of depressive symptoms were assessed approximately 20 months later. Results: Hope mediated the relation between family strain and depressive symptoms. For individuals high versus low in self-compassion, strain-related declines in hope predicted smaller increases in depressive symptoms. Discussion: Taken together, the findings suggest that family strain may lead individuals to experience less hope and subsequent increases in depressive symptoms. However, a self-compassionate attitude may serve as a resilience resource, weakening the hope – depressive symptoms relation.