Abstract
Introduction: Extensive research substantiates a negative correlation between stress and health. The implications of traumatic stress are complex, affecting the physical, psychological, physiological, and social health of individuals. The aim of this study was to examine the role of social support in relation to trauma-related health consequences.
Methods: Nationally representative data were obtained from the Midlife in the United States study, covering the period 2004-2006, and used in regression models to predict the relationships between types of trauma (adult vs. childhood), measures of social support, and biomarkers of stress reactivity (cortisol, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), and number of health conditions).
Results: The study found that an increase in traumatic experiences during adulthood was associated with a higher logged cortisol level, but social support did not buffer these effects. No significant trends were observed with childhood trauma.
Conclusions: Results suggest the importance of addressing indicators from multiple domains simultaneously to investigate the effects of trauma and social support on biomarkers of stress.
Keywords: social support, trauma, cortisol, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, health conditions
Elevated Plasma High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Concentrations in Asian Indians Living in the United States
