In-depth Notes on Social Determinants of Mental Health

Introduction to Mental Health and Social Determinants

• Mental Health Course Overview

  • Presented by the Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Gadjah Mada.

  • Focus: Understanding the social determinants affecting mental health.

Key Concepts on Mental Health

• Mental Health vs. Mental Disorder

  • Mental Health: Not merely the absence of mental disorders; it encompasses overall well-being.

  • Individuals with mental disorders can achieve a high level of functioning and satisfaction.

  • Mental Disorders: Conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. (WHO definition, 2014).

Social Determinants of Mental Health

• Definition

  • Social, economic, and environmental factors that influence mental health conditions.

  • Can either raise the risk of mental disorders or foster well-being.

Factors Influencing Mental Health

• Major Social Determinants:

  • Social-economic conditions

  • Educational background

  • Environmental factors

  • Employment and working conditions

  • Social networks and community support

  • Access to mental health services

Socioeconomic Influences

• Poverty and Economic Inequality

  • Increase stress and anxiety levels.

  • Unemployment and unstable job conditions heighten mental disorder risks.

• Demographic Disparities:

  • Certain groups experience higher susceptibility to disorders due to socio-economic disadvantages.

  • Gender differences affect prevalence: women face unique risk factors like gender-based violence and discrimination.

Education and Mental Health

• Lower educational attainment correlated with higher rates of Common Mental Disorders (CMDs).

• E.g., Elderly individuals lacking access to education face increased mental health risks.

Employment and Mental Well-being

• Negative work environments lead to mental health degradation:

  • Stressful jobs, insecure employment, and poor work-life balance.

• Conversely, stable employment can enhance mental well-being.

Community and Environmental Factors

• Community Environment:

  • Safe neighborhoods with community support enhance mental health.

  • Communities with high crime, pollution, or inadequate housing contribute to anxiety and depression.

• Social Connectivity:

  • Strong ties with family and friends can insulate against stress and improve mental health conditions.

Access to Mental Health Services

• An effective, inclusive healthcare system is crucial for managing and treating mental disorders.

• Stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help, highlighting a need for educational reforms.

The Life-Course Perspective

• Mental Health Across the Lifespan

  • Different stages: prenatal, early childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and elderly.

  • Stresses importance of intervention from before birth through old age to affect lifelong mental health trajectories.

Prenatal and Early Childhood Factors

• Maternal mental health is crucial.

  • Mothers with depression increase the risk of developmental challenges in their children.

  • Intervention strategies can enhance maternal health and child outcomes.

Adolescents and Young Adults

• Increased risk for mental issues during these formative years due to substance use and social pressure.

• Emotional and social support are essential protective factors.

Older Adults

• Higher rates of social isolation; this demographic often faces mental health challenges.

• Policies need to cater specifically to the needs of older populations to mitigate risks.

Principles for Addressing Mental Health

• Proportionate Universalism:

  • Policies should be universal but adapted to meet specific community needs.

• Comprehensive Life-Course Approach:

  • Emphasizes preventative measures and early interventions as key strategies.

WHO’s Framework and Recommendations

• Strategies include:

  • Promoting work-life balance and decent job conditions.

  • Reducing stigma through education and support.

  • Ensuring universal access to mental health services.