Social Support in Mediating The Relationship Between Interpersonal Communication, Self-Esteem, and Mental Health Among Young Adults

This study examines the mediating role of social support in the relationship between interpersonal communication, self-esteem, and mental health among young adults. Young adults are considered a vulnerable group experiencing rapid developmental transitions that often influence their psychological well-being. Prior research has explored partial links among these variables; however, empirical studies that position social support as the central mediator remain limited. Using a quantitative correlational design, this study surveyed young adults aged 18–25 using standardized measurement instruments, including the Interpersonal Communication Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Mental Health Inventory (MHI-38). The results indicate that interpersonal communication and self-esteem both positively correlate with mental health, while social support significantly mediates these relationships.