Life Events: Their Impact on Mental Health
Life events play an important role in influencing mental health. Numerous studies have examined the effects of life events on mental health, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress. The results of these studies demonstrate that life events can have a significant impact on mental health, and that this impact can vary based on the type and number of life events experienced (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011; Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2014).
Life events can be broadly categorized into three types: positive, negative, and mixed. Positive life events are those that are experienced as positive, such as getting married or having a baby. Negative life events are those that are experienced as negative, such as the death of a loved one or the loss of a job. Mixed life events are those that have both positive and negative components, such as graduating from school or moving to a new city.
Many studies have found that experiencing negative life events, such as death, divorce, unemployment, or illness, is associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011; Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2014). Similarly, experiencing multiple negative life events is associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011; Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2014).
The impact of positive life events on mental health has been less studied, but some studies suggest that positive life events can have a protective effect against mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011). This protective effect appears to be strongest when the positive life events are experienced in close succession (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011).
Mixed life events can have a complex impact on mental health. Some studies suggest that mixed life events can be beneficial, as long as the positive components outweigh the negative components (Kronenberg & Manuck, 2011). Other studies suggest that mixed life events can have a negative impact on mental health, particularly if the negative components outweigh the positive components (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2014).
In summary, life events can have a significant impact on mental health, and this impact can vary based on the type and number of life events experienced. Negative life events are associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress, while positive life events can have a protective effect. Mixed life events can have either a positive or a negative impact on mental health, depending on the type and number of life events experienced.
References
Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K., Derry, H. M., Fagundes, C. P., Andridge, R., & Glaser, R. (2014). Stress, inflammation, and yoga practice. Psychosomatic Medicine, 76(3), 277–285.
Kronenberg, F., & Manuck, S. B. (2011). Life events, depression, and cortisol: Moderation by 5-HTTLPR. Biological Psychiatry, 69(5), 453–458.