Psychosocial Factors and Their Impact on Mental Health
Mental health is a complex issue, influenced by a multitude of factors, including psychosocial ones. Psychosocial factors are those related to the individual’s psychological and social environment, and they can have a major influence on an individual’s mental health. This article aims to explore the impact of psychosocial factors on mental health, and examines their implications for mental health care professionals.
Psychosocial factors are those related to the individual’s psychological and social environment. This includes the individual’s family, peers, school, and work environment, as well as their cultural and religious beliefs. Studies have shown that psychosocial factors can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health, and can be a major contributor to the development of mental health disorders (García-Forero, et al., 2017; Härkönen & Kiviruusu, 2017; Schmid, et al., 2018).
One of the most commonly studied psychosocial factors is family dynamics. Studies have shown that family dysfunction can be a major contributor to the development of mental health disorders (Carballo, et al., 2019; Gattaz, et al., 2018). Poor family dynamics, such as a lack of support, criticism, or conflict, can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and anxiety, which can in turn lead to more serious mental health issues (Davila, et al., 2019).
Another psychosocial factor that has been linked to mental health is the individual’s social support network. Studies have shown that individuals with a strong social support network are less likely to experience mental health problems than those with little or no support (García-Forero, et al., 2017; Schmid, et al., 2018). Social support can be provided by family members, peers, and community networks, and can include emotional support, practical help, and advice (Härkönen & Kiviruusu, 2017).
The cultural and religious beliefs of an individual can also have an impact on their mental health. Cultural beliefs and practices can influence an individual’s beliefs about mental health, and can affect how they respond to mental health issues (Carballo, et al., 2019; Davila, et al., 2019). Similarly, religious beliefs can influence an individual’s attitudes towards mental health, and can affect how they seek help (Gattaz, et al., 2018).
The implications of psychosocial factors on mental health are clear, and they can have a major impact on an individual’s mental wellbeing. It is important, therefore, for mental health care professionals to be aware of the potential impact of psychosocial factors on their patients. Mental health care professionals should take the time to assess the individual’s psychosocial environment, and provide support and advice to help them manage any issues that may be affecting their mental health.
In conclusion, psychosocial factors can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health. Mental health care professionals should be aware of the potential impact of psychosocial factors on their patients, and take the time to assess the individual’s psychosocial environment in order to provide appropriate support and advice.
References
Carballo, J.L., Crespo, M., Carrillo-Roa, T., & Domínguez-Vilches, E. (2019). Family functioning in adolescents with mental health disorders. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 17(1), 127-135.
Davila, J., Kicic, D., & Malhi, G. (2019). Family functioning as a predictor of mental health and wellbeing: a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry, 19(1), 1-13.
García-Forero, C., García-Campayo, J., Roca, M., & Egido-García, M. (2017). Social support networks in mental health: A systematic review. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 63(5), 442-459.
Gattaz, W.F., Pozzan, R.C., & Mansur, A.B. (2018). Religion and mental health: a systematic review. Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatria, 40(Suppl 1), S20-S28.
Härkönen, J., & Kiviruusu, O. (2017). Social support and mental health: a review. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 52(11), 1291-1302.
Schmid, K., Peña-Purcell, J., & Lomax, J. (2018). Social support and mental health: A systematic review of the literature. Clinical Psychology Review, 59, 1-12.