What are the social determinants of mental health? 

According to Healthy People 2030, the social determinants of health are the conditions in the social, physical, and economic environment in which people are born, live, work, and age. They consist of policies, programs, and institutions, and other aspects of the social structure (including the government and private sectors), as well as community factors that impact physical and mental health. 

Learn more about the social determinants of health
​Enhance your understanding of the social determinants of mental health 
​Access the WHO's report on the social determinants of mental health 

The social determinants of mental health influence quality of life and access to effective treatments and services.

This graphic shows that the social determinants of health are economic stability, physical environment, education, access to food, community and social context, and the health care system
Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

What are the impacts? ​

Mental health is impacted by interactions between individuals and their social and physical environments. For example, limited access to welcoming, affordable spaces to socialize can increase isolation and loneliness, which impedes recovery. Lacking access to meaningful activities limits development of purpose and personal growth, resulting in poorer emotional wellness. Lacking access to affordable transportation interferes with attending mental health appointments, support groups, and peer services. 

Watch a webinar explaining the social determinants of mental health

Assessing social determinants ​

It's becoming increasingly common for health and mental health providers to assess clients' social determinants to identify barriers to physical and mental health recovery. 
Use this financial tool to calculate the return on investment (ROI) from integrating social services with medical care. The calculator will help you to compare how financial returns and risks can be divided between cross-sectional partners (social service and medical), under a variety of payment arrangements and levels.  
Access the calculator 

What works? ​

As systems transition toward value-based care, provider organizations are re-evaluating how the social determinants are influencing their clients' health and quality of life. Systems also are considering effective and efficient organizational strategies.  
Learn about the evidence, policy initiatives, and an intervention model for using mental health self-directed care to address social determinates 
See how self-directed career accounts can address social determinates 

Using data and IT to manage the social determinants of health

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