What Causes Mental Health Problems?

Feeling low, having a stressful week, or feeling uncomfortable is normal only if it is periodic. It’s noted that in some people these kinds of experiences turn into something severe and result in serious mental health problems like personality disorder, anxiety, depression and more. To find out why it happens, let’s study some of the most common causes of mental health illnesses.

Did You Know?

32% of the global population experiences mental disorders. This figure has remained consistent since 2023 – IPSOS.

1. Causes of Mental Health Issues 

The Biological Facts

When we discuss mental health causes, we emphasize thoughts and feelings but overlook the fundamental role our body and brain play in arousing sensitivities. Here are some common biological factors that count:

Genetics

You’ve probably heard stories of certain mental illnesses (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and anxiety) passing on in the family tree. This doesn’t mean if one of your parents has depression, you’re guaranteed to develop it; instead, genes can create a predisposition, aka increased sensitivity.

The Biological Facts

Our brain serves as the command hub that sends signals to the body via neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA). When they are imbalanced, they affect mood, thoughts, and behaviour. For example, decreased serotonin levels are frequently connected to depression, whereas irregularities in dopamine relate to schizophrenia.

Structure and Function of the Brain

Medical imaging methods (MIR, CT Scans) reveal subtle variations in the size or function of particular brain areas in people with specific mental health disorders. For instance, the amygdala, an emotion processor in the brain, is overly active in a person with an anxiety disorder, whereas regions of the prefrontal cortex that handle decision-making and impulse regulation may be less active in those experiencing depression. 

Chronic Medical Conditions

Suffering from prolonged illness like heart disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders leads to psychological stress, which increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders due to associated stress. Moreover, consistent poor nutrition and improper/short sleep cycle (4-5 hours) also fuel mental sickness.

Life Experiences

While our biology sets a foundation, our life experiences, thoughts, and emotional responses are equally powerful causes of mental health disorders. Let’s understand the concept from a few examples:

Trauma

Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in childhood, natural disasters, accidents, or wartime experiences lessen the brain’s processing of information and arouse fear emotions that result in issues like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), persistent anxiety, and depression. The idea of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) further says that early traumas can have lasting effects on physical and mental health across a person’s life.

Cognitive Frameworks

How we perceive ourselves, others, and the world directly influences our mental health. Negative thinking habits, like catastrophic thinking (constantly expecting the worst) black and white thinking, and overgeneralization increase hopelessness, anxiety, and distort our perception of reality. Additionally, when a person feels they lack control over their situation, they end up with apathy and severe depression.

Personality Characteristics

Increased neuroticism (a disposition toward negative feelings), diminished self-worth, or severe urge for perfectionism increase the chances of stress, anxiety, bipolar and eating disorders in individuals. 

Environmental and Social Influences

Our social context, economic circumstances, and the broader environment have a great impact on mental health. For example,

Major Life Changes 

Major incidents like loss of a dream job, divorce, bereavement, financial difficulties, or moving to a new city decrease a sense of control and coping abilities. Chronic stress, i.e., ongoing pressures from demanding jobs, difficult relationships, or systemic discrimination, is even more harmful.

Social Isolation and Loneliness

The presence or absence of social support has a major role in deteriorating mental health. For example, a lack of meaningful connections leads us to feelings of loneliness and despair, which arouse anxiety.

Discrimination

Ignorance, anger, and hate based on identity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other differences result in emotional exhaustion and inferiority complexes. Moreover, it develops a fear of judgment, and as a result, the affected individual avoids seeking even necessary help

Socioeconomic Factors 

Poverty and inequality restrict access to fundamental resources like quality healthcare, education, and safe housing. This chronic stress of financial instability, combined with feelings of powerlessness, causes mental disorders like serious inferiority complexes, a sense of failure all the time and even social anxiety. 

2. A Path Forward to Recovery 

Identifying mental health issues isn’t about highlighting an individual’s weaknesses, it’s necessary to promote understanding and empathy towards complex human experiences. If you or someone you know is struggling, it’s vital to remember:

• It’s Not Your Fault: Having a mental illness doesn’t mean you are flawed; these are legit health conditions, just like physical ones.
• Recovery is Possible: With the right support and strategies on time, you can effectively manage your mental health conditions and live fulfilling lives.
• Help is Available: Access support systems like the mental health specialists for professional guidance, this effectively helps improve mental and physical health.

3. Helpful Daily Life Advice for Good Mental Health

• Talk to a trusted family member or friend to help you deal with any complex situation or any issues.
• Don’t skip regular check-ups, as your physical health can affect your mental health.
• Ensure you get sufficient sleep, take a healthy diet (organic foods), and exercise regularly.
• Note your triggers and any unusual behavioural symptoms, then discuss them with a doctor or therapist.