Now more than ever, we have become aware of mental health and what it entails. This is helpful for those who are suffering and those who are trying to help. However, it’s important to understand the root causes of mental health issues. By understanding the causes of negative mental health issues, we can look towards overcoming these problems.

Common Causes of Mental Health Problems

There is no one way of determining what causes an individual’s mental health disorder. Mental illnesses include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and addictive behaviours. Each of these mental disorders has different causes which are dependent on the individual’s circumstances.

Mental health causes can be categorised into biological, psychological and environmental.

Biological Causes

Biology does play a part in mental health issues. Chemical imbalances in the brain can cause low moods and feelings of depression. What’s more, some studies show that mental health disorders are hereditary and can run in the family.

Psychological Causes

Trauma and abuse can happen at any point in life. Childhood trauma can continue into early adulthood and adulthood. Unfortunately, unresolved traumas from childhood can manifest in adulthood and cause behavioural and emotional problems.

The same can be said for abuse and trauma that is faced in adulthood. Domestic violence and bullying can take place as an adult which can result in mental health issues.

Environmental Causes

A negative environment can cause long-term stress which has a negative impact on mental health. Stress can be caused by many things, such as unemployment, financial difficulties, and poor housing, to name a few. Extreme stress due to personal circumstances can lead to low moods and emotional difficulties.

If you believe you have experienced any of the above, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and there is always someone to talk to.

Symptoms of Mental Health

Signs and symptoms differ depending on the mental health disorder and circumstance. Generally speaking, these symptoms will affect emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

• Constant low moods.

• Extreme mood changes. Feeling high and low.

• Constant tiredness and low energy.

• Detachment from reality.

• Alcohol or drug abuse.

• Excessive fear and feelings of guilt.

Most people run into mental health issues at some point in their life. However, if the symptoms are ongoing and are significantly impacting your day-to-day life, you need to consult a health professional like a GP or therapist.

What to do Next

Once you have identified the causes and symptoms of mental health, you can take the necessary step to help yourself or a loved one. It’s important that you pay attention to warning signs and confront them rather than leaving the symptoms to develop. The way to do this is by taking good care of yourself: eating well, exercising and establishing a good sleep routine.

At Mental Health Life, we are here to help people take the next step and tackle their mental health issues. Call or message us now if you would like details of the courses that we offer for individual and corporate clients in the UK.