Throughout our individual lives, various individual, social, and environmental factors contribute to the safety or undermining of our mental health. Individuals living with mental ill-health are at a higher risk of having physical health issues, having mental disorders, being unemployed, being homeless, or being in prison.
Negative Factors
Individual factors such as emotional coping skills, substance use, medications, and genetics can all increase the risk of developing mental health issues. The exposure to social, economic, and environmental conditions such as poverty, violence, inequality, and environmental deprivation also poses an increased risk of facing depression and anxiety.
Early childhood is a particularly sensitive developmental period, and harmful effects linger into adulthood. This could include harsh parenting, physical punishment, and bullying, which can all negatively impact a child's mental health.
Positive Factors
Individuals with positive experiences in social and emotional interactions, quality education, and a secure family component can all enhance resilience.