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.