5 Common Causes of Mental Health Problems

Numerous factors might contribute to mental health problems, commonly referred to as mental health diseases or mental illnesses. Even though there is no single cause of mental health illnesses, here are 5 common causes of mental health problems.

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It’s crucial to remember these causes mental of health problems frequently combine to cause mental difficulties, and that each person will experience these things differently.

Multiple elements, such as biological, psychological, and environmental ones, are some causes of mental health problems. On the other hand, mental health problems can have a substantial impact on a person’s thoughts, emotions, behavior, and day-to-day functioning.

It is important to deal with these causes of mental health problems when they arise. Mental health help can be found by seeking professional help from mental health practitioners, such as therapists or psychiatrists, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment for mental health concerns.

This post is all about the causes of mental health problems that every person should be aware of.

Common Causes of Mental Health Problems

1. Biological factors

Genetics and family history have a significant influence on mental health. It is likely that certain genes and genetic variants increase your chances of developing mental health issues. A family history of mental health issues is often a sign that certain genetic variants are present in a person. This is because mental health issues tend to be passed down through generations, and these genetic variants can be inherited. Anatomical abnormalities in the brain and chemical imbalances in the brain (neurotransmitters) might lead to mental health issues. Psychological evaluations are important in identifying the underlying cause of mental health issues.

2. Psychological factors

Psychological and emotional factors can influence mental health. Experiences such as trauma, abuse, neglect, or significant life changes can have a profound impact on mental well-being, and the impact of those as aspects may be mostly shifted on to the negative side and they contribute to the causes of mental health problems. Low self-esteem, poor coping skills, and negative thinking patterns can also contribute to the development of mental health issues. It is important to have coping mechanisms for your mental health, and one of them is journaling. There are different types of journaling styles, one may journal his/her daily thoughts, and other people prefer to have gratitude journals to help them stay positive at all times. Below is a great gratitude journal for a good price on amazon.

Name of the Journal: Daily Reflection, and Gratitude Journal: 365 days by Moseki

Link: A good gratitude journal

3. Environmental factors

There are environmental factors that cause mental health problems. They include exposure to chronic stress, poverty, violence, or unstable family environments. There is unemployment that leads to poverty, poverty that leads to violence and substance abuse, which then leads to loss of jobs and lives. There are parents who are staying in abusive relationships because the other partner is the provider, which leads to boys growing up to be abusive men to their partners. Girls also grow up to know that as long as a man is providing, then it is ok to be abused. Some men feel pressurized by the society to constantly provide financially even if love and support is not reciprocated. Some express their frustration in an abusive manner as society expects them to always be strong. Childhood experiences also have a huge impact in how adults conduct themselves in our society. It is an ongoing cycle; households should be checked regularly.

4. Childhood experiences

Adverse childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence can increase the risk of developing mental health conditions later in life. If one does not address these childhood experiences, they will open doors for more mental health problems, such that one will likely experience negative relationships during adulthood. Childhood experiences also play a huge role in a person’s self-esteem, such that you devalue yourself and indulge in toxic relationships all because you do not know your self-worth. It may go further into our career, such that you may be presented with opportunities and then you do not perform to the best of your ability due to lack of confidence.  Seeing a psychologist can to better your mental health and help curb negative generational childhood experiences.

5. Hormonal changes and Chronic medical conditions

Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect mood, emotions, and mental health. This is because hormones act as messengers in the body and can affect the way certain areas of the brain function. When hormone levels become unbalanced, it can lead to changes in mood, emotions, and mental health. Postpartum depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder are examples of how hormones can affect mental health. Mental health can be significantly impacted by several physical health issues, including cancer, neurological problems, and chronic pain. Stress, suffering, and limitations can lead to mental health issues as depression.

Accurately diagnosing these issues can help provide effective treatment plans to ensure people have access to the support they need.