By Khushi Gupta
in 
Mental health is not just about the absence of mental disorders or diseases. It also includes looking after one’s wellness and happiness. It is crucial for an individual to look after their mental state at an individual and societal level.
If a person is mentally ill, their thinking or the way they behave is affected. Let’s take an example. A person who has been energetic throughout their life will become quiet and try to distance themselves if they acquire a mental illness.
In many cases, only behavior or only thinking is affected. The person may still be energetic, but their thoughts might be negatively affected.
There are many factors affecting a person’s mental state. We will discuss some of them.
Factors Affecting Mental Health
Continuous Social and Economic Pressure
These can be grouped as:-
Modifiable Factors
- Socio-economic Conditions (work availability, etc.)
- Occupation
- A Person’s Level of Social Involvement
- Education
- Housing Quality
Non-modifiable Factors
- Gender
- Age
- Ethnicity
- Nationality
Childhood Adversity
Having childhood experiences, like separation from parents, child abuse, parent’s illness, or loss of a parent can, drastically affect a child’s mental state and lead to chronic stress or psychological disorders.
Biological Factors
The likelihood of a mental disorder increases due to the genetic history of a family with gene variants of mental disorders.
But that gene could be a recessive gene that does not develop. Health problems like cancer, etc. can lead to chronic stress and psychological disorders.
Types of Mental Disorders
- Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD, Phobias, Panic Disorders, PTSD)
- Mood Disorders (Depression, SAD, Bipolar Disorder)
- Schizophrenia disorders
World Mental Health Day
Celebrated on 10th October, aims to aware people of the mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
**This blog and all its content, including images, are submitted by students under the Youth Voices Fellowship.**