Objective:

To examine the current status of social functioning and its associated factors among patients with severe mental illness (SMI) in Minhang District, Shanghai.

Approach:

• Survey Methodology: A district-wide population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2022 among all registered patients with SMI in Minhang District.
• Assessment Tools: Social functioning, perceived social support, anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms were assessed using standardized scales.
• Statistical Analysis: Univariate comparisons were performed using t-tests and ANOVA, and multiple linear regression was used to examine factors associated with social functioning.

Key Findings:

• The prevalence of social dysfunction was 36.6%, with social interaction being the most affected domain.
• Depressive symptoms were more prevalent than anxiety symptoms, with 11.3% of patients having comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms.
• More severe depressive symptoms were positively associated with social dysfunction (P < 0.001).
• Higher perceived social support was negatively associated with social dysfunction (P < 0.001).

Interpretation:

More severe depressive symptoms correlate with greater social dysfunction, while higher social support relates to better social functioning.

Limitations:

• The study is limited to a specific district and may not be generalizable to other regions.
• Cross-sectional design limits causal inferences.

Conclusion:

Routine screening for depressive symptoms may enhance community mental health management.