Social ties play a crucial role in maintaining psychological well-being. Research highlights two models explaining how social networks influence mental health: the main effect model, which suggests social ties have a consistent positive effect, and the stress-buffering model, which posits that social support buffers against stress. These models are not mutually exclusive and may explain different aspects of social relationships. Social ties are not uniformly beneficial across all groups. Gender differences in social support may explain why women experience higher rates of psychological distress. Women may be more susceptible to stress from others' problems and may provide more social support, which can lead to a "support gap." Socioeconomic status also influences the impact of social ties, with low-resource women facing greater challenges in receiving support. Social capital, which includes embeddedness in social structures, is important for mental health. Social networks have multiple layers, from intimate relationships to community involvement, each contributing to mental well-being. However, overly rigid social structures can have negative effects, as seen in traditional communities where adherence to norms may increase anxiety. Interventions to improve mental health through social support have shown some success, but there is a need for more research on the design, timing, and effectiveness of these interventions. Structural interventions, such as changes in community and workplace policies, may also be beneficial. Overall, social ties are essential for mental health, but their impact varies based on individual and societal factors. Further research is needed to understand how to best leverage social ties for mental health improvement.Social ties play a crucial role in maintaining psychological well-being. Research highlights two models explaining how social networks influence mental health: the main effect model, which suggests social ties have a consistent positive effect, and the stress-buffering model, which posits that social support buffers against stress. These models are not mutually exclusive and may explain different aspects of social relationships. Social ties are not uniformly beneficial across all groups. Gender differences in social support may explain why women experience higher rates of psychological distress. Women may be more susceptible to stress from others' problems and may provide more social support, which can lead to a "support gap." Socioeconomic status also influences the impact of social ties, with low-resource women facing greater challenges in receiving support. Social capital, which includes embeddedness in social structures, is important for mental health. Social networks have multiple layers, from intimate relationships to community involvement, each contributing to mental well-being. However, overly rigid social structures can have negative effects, as seen in traditional communities where adherence to norms may increase anxiety. Interventions to improve mental health through social support have shown some success, but there is a need for more research on the design, timing, and effectiveness of these interventions. Structural interventions, such as changes in community and workplace policies, may also be beneficial. Overall, social ties are essential for mental health, but their impact varies based on individual and societal factors. Further research is needed to understand how to best leverage social ties for mental health improvement.