Project Title: The relationship between social support and mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic illnesses

Prepared by: ***************
Date: **************

1. Introduction

Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, are long-term health conditions that can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being (Boyle et al., 2005). These conditions often require ongoing medical treatment and can lead to physical limitations, pain, and discomfort, as well as financial and emotional stress.

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall health and well-being, and individuals with chronic illnesses are at an increased risk of experiencing mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression (NIMH, 2016). These conditions can further exacerbate the physical symptoms of chronic illness and lead to decreased quality of life.

Social support is a crucial factor in the mental health of individuals with chronic illnesses. Social support refers to the emotional and practical help that individuals receive from their friends, family, and community. It can include emotional support, such as listening and offering words of encouragement, as well as practical support, such as help with household tasks or transportation to medical appointments.

2. Aims and objectives

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between social support and mental health outcomes in individuals with chronic illnesses.

The specific objectives of the study are to:

• Identify the types of social support that are commonly available to individuals with chronic illnesses.
• Evaluate the impact of social support on the mental health of individuals with chronic illnesses.
• Determine the factors that influence the availability and effectiveness of social support for individuals with chronic illnesses.
• Develop recommendations for improving the availability and effectiveness of social support for individuals with chronic illnesses.

To achieve these objectives, the study will involve a review of existing literature on the topic, as well as interviews with individuals with chronic illnesses and the providers of social support services. The findings of the study will be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to support the mental health of individuals with chronic illnesses.

• 3. Summary

• 4. Ethical Considerations

• 5. Methodology

• 6. Literature Review

• 7. Findings

• 8. Analysis

• 9. Conclusion

• 10. Recommendations

• 11. Reference

• 12. Appendices

Learning outcomes covered in the full paper:

• 1.1 Give examples of the different types of study skills that may be utilised when undertaking an extended piece of work

• 1.2 Explain the benefits of applying study skills within context of own role

• 2.1 Explain the difference between:
  a) Primary research
  b) Secondary research

• 2.2 Explain the use of the following within the health sector:
  a) Primary research
  b) Secondary research

• 2.3 Explain the impact of factors on research

• 2.4 Describe the strategies for gathering information critically and effectively to inform research

• 3.1 Create a plan

• 3.2 Monitor own progress against the plan

• 4.1 Conduct primary and/or secondary research to inform an extended piece of work

• 5.1 Create an extended piece of work that includes:
  a) Use of standard English
  b) Consideration of audience
  c) Appropriate citation/referencing
  d) Appropriate presentation format for chosen medium

• 5.2 Explain the importance of including:
  a) Methodology
  b) Analysis
  c) Findings
  d) Conclusions
  e) Recommendations

• 6.1 Explain the importance of seeking feedback on an extended piece of work

• 6.2 Seek feedback on an extended piece of work
• 6.3 Evaluate the methodology and the outcomes to inform future approach