Increased income over time predicts better self-perceived mental health only at a population level but not for individual changes: An analysis of a longitudinal cohort using cross-lagged models

• There is a significant effect of income on SPMH at the between-person level, but not vice versa. However, no associations emerged within-person level. At level effects were stronger among men and older adults. Findings support social causation hypothesis that deems low as root cause poor health. Income modifiable risk factor public health importance for improving population . The literature identifies strong relationship between mental income, there little research clarifies directional association household self-perceived (SPMH) overtime either between-perso+n or levels. This study investigates whether higher predicts better lower both Data analyzed was from Montreal Southwest Social Psychiatric Epidemiology Catchment Area (ZEPSOM), longitudinal community-based cohort. baseline survey conducted in 2007/8 with follow-up every two years. We traced total 3464 participants over period 8 To examine levels, cross-lagged panel models (CLPMs) random intercept (RI-CLPMs) used. Gender age examined using multiple group analyses. Complete case analyses evaluated findings’ robustness. predicted SPMH, These did predict SPMH. No gender- age- differences observed. supported findings. Loss to may affect generalizability suggests Policy programs aiming promoting should focus low-income individuals, especially