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. 2024 Jan 24;66(Suppl 2):S231–S244. doi: 10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_707_23

Table 3.

Determinants of mental health and well-being[23,24,25,26,27,28,29]

Determinants Examples Description
Individual factors Intelligence Higher cognitive abilities can contribute to better problem-solving skills and coping mechanisms
Easy temperament Individuals with appositive disposition and adaptability tend to have higher mental
Well-being
Resilience The ability to bounce back from adversity and cope with stressors positively
Interpersonal relationships Healthy and meaningful connections with others, including family, friends, and peers
Self-esteem A positive self-perception and confidence in one’s abilities
Social factors Social capital Resources are available through social networks, community participation, and support systems
Social support Having a strong network of supportive relationships and social connections
Community participation Engaging in activities and contributing to the community, fostering a sense of belonging
Economic factors Income Higher-income levels are associated with better mental health outcomes, as financial stability can reduce stress
Employment Meaningful and secure employment provides a sense of purpose and financial security
Poverty Living in poverty increases the risk of mental health problems due to limited access to resources and opportunities
Education Level of education Higher levels of education are often linked to better mental health outcomes
Access to quality education Adequate educational opportunities and resources contribute to positive mental development
Physical health Physical well-being Good physical health, including regular exercise, healthy diet, and sufficient sleep
Supports mental well-being
Access to health care Adequate access to healthcare services and preventive care contributes to better mental health outcomes
Housing Housing quality Safe, secure, and suitable housing conditions positively impact mental well-being
Stability Having stable housing and a sense of belonging in one’s living environment.
Family and relationships Positive family dynamics Supportive, loving, and nurturing family relationships foster mental health
Support networks Strong social support systems beyond the family units, such as friends and community groups
Supportive adults Having caring and supportive adults in one’s life, such as parents or mentors, can provide emotional stability and guidance
Life events Positive life events Joyful experiences and significant achievements contribute to positive mental well-being
Coping mechanisms The ability to effectively cope with stressful life events and adapt to changes
Culture and identity Cultural norms Cultural values, beliefs, and practices that support mental health and well-being
Sense of belonging Feeling connected to one’s culture, community, and identity promotes mental well-being
Access to resources Access to mental health services Availability and affordability of mental health support and treatment options
Social support systems Access to networks and resources that provide assistance during challenging times
Environment Urban design Well-designed cities and neighborhoods that promote physical activity, community engagement, and access to nature
Green spaces Access to parks and natural environments that contribute to stress reduction and improved mental health
Community infrastructure Availability of community centers, recreational facilities, and amenities that foster social connections
Lifestyle factors Diet A balanced and nutritious diet contributes to overall mental and physical well-being
Exercise Regular physical activity is associated with improved mental health and mood
Substance use Associated with poor mental health and well-being
Sleep patterns Sufficient and quality sleep is crucial for mental and emotional balance
Stigma and discrimination Reduction in stigma Challenging and reducing societal stigmatization around mental health issues
Promotion of inclusivity Creating an inclusive and accepting society that embraces diversity