Mental health is significant in an individual’s overall health and well-being. It influences how one shows up every day, how they interact with others, and even how they feel about themselves and their outlook on life. While everyone goes through some challenges at one point or another, mental health can impact how someone gets through them and how they come out on the other side. That said, everyone’s journeys are unique. Here, an understanding of the mental health spectrum and what influences overall health as a whole.
What is the Mental Health Spectrum?
Similar to physical health and wellness, mental health exists on a spectrum. It ranges from excellent mental health to severe mental illness. These ranges can change over time, as people experience different challenges and fluctuations throughout their lives. For instance, an individual can have minor mental health symptoms, which can worsen to more severe symptoms as a result of stress or grief.
Recognizing that mental health exists on a spectrum is important for reducing stigma and shame around certain conditions. No matter where someone is on the spectrum, they should feel supported and comforted knowing they are not alone in their journey. It can also help promote earlier intervention. A partner who recognizes their significant other’s mental health is taking a turn can feel empowered to step in and offer suggestions and help.
The spectrum also allows for more tailored and effective support as well as long-term treatment. Inpatient treatment for substance abuse, for example, can be specifically customized to assist a patient through their treatment. Everyone has diverse experiences and backgrounds that can impact how treatment may work for them. Someone who has a great family support system may not have as many caregiving needs as someone isolated and alone.
The Influences of Mental Health
Now that you have an understanding of how mental health exists on a spectrum, it’s important to understand everything that can influence mental health. Three main categories or factors can impact an individual’s mental health: biological, psychological, and social.
Biological Factors
Genetics isn’t a determining factor, but it can play a role in someone’s risk of mental health disorders. Conditions such as bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia are considered to be “highly heritable,” which means that genes can be passed down from one family member to another. While it’s a good idea to look at one’s family history, note that it’s not the only factor at play. Just because a father has bipolar disorder doesn’t mean they will pass it down to their children.
That said, if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder, speak with your doctor or health provider about any family history. This may rule out some conditions while also providing you with the support and help you need.
Psychological Factors
Psychological factors, including one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, can overall impact and influence an individual’s mental health experience. Someone with great coping skills may be able to overcome signs of depression more than someone who immediately panics and feels overwhelmed. The same goes for having a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Someone with a positive outlook on their life may be able to push through when life becomes more challenging.
On the other hand, negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem and lack of self-compassion, and childhood trauma can significantly impact how an individual can handle any mental health symptoms or disorders. These individuals may need more one-on-one help and support to overcome how they’re feeling. Some of these psychological factors can have lasting effects on one’s mental health, leading to conditions such as long-term anxiety and PTSD.
Social Factors
Lastly, social factors can play an important role in the development and management of mental health conditions. Socioeconomic determinants, such as food insecurity, housing instability, and unemployment, can put someone at a higher risk of being diagnosed with a mental health condition.
The level of support and close relationships that someone has can also influence their mental health. An individual with a close network of friends, co-workers, neighbors, and family members may be able to lean on them during times of increased anxiety and stress. However, someone feeling isolated, lonely, or unable to connect with others may not feel as supported during tough times.
Also, someone with access to quality healthcare services, along with community resources, may feel comforted in their journey. This is why it’s so important for everyone to get the help and support they need for their unique mental health needs, regardless of their socioeconomic background or status.
Finding the Right Help and Support
No matter where you or a loved one is regarding mental health, know that there is support and care available to you. Mental health professionals can help diagnose a condition and suggest a treatment plan for your unique needs. They may be able to advise on individual therapy or support groups for ongoing treatment, as well as potential inpatient or outpatient services. Prioritizing your mental health is essential to overall health and wellness, which is why acknowledging and processing how you feel is vital for your well-being today and tomorrow, too.