The relationship of stress, coping, and social support to depression

The relationship of the sources, mediators, and manifestations of stress were examined in a review of the literature. Stress is comprised of microstressors and daily hassles in addition to negative life events and changes. Direct, problem-focused coping mechanisms were found to be more effective in reducing stress than emotion-focused strategies. Social support reduces stress through strong main effects, but the interaction of stress and support depends on the specific types of stress and support under study