What Causes Mental Illness ?
The exact cause of most mental illnesses is not known. It is believed that mental illnesses are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. That is why, recovery from a mental illness is not simply a matter of will power and self-discipline. Mental illnesses, in general, are thought to be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors:
Heredity
Mental illness is more common in people whose blood relatives also have a mental illness. Presence of certain genes increase one’s risk of developing a mental illness. However, a person who inherits a susceptibility to a mental disorder doesn't always develop the condition. The disorder itself occurs from the interaction of the faulty genes and other factors such as psychological trauma and environmental stressors. This interaction triggers the illness in a person who has inherited a susceptibility to it.
Biological factors
An abnormal balance of some naturally occurring chemicals, called neurotransmitters, in the brain can cause mental illness. Neurotransmitters carry signals to other parts of the brain and body. If these chemicals are out of balance, the brain is not able to function properly, leading to symptoms of mental illness. In addition, damage to certain areas of the brain can also cause mental conditions
Psychological trauma
People who have suffered psychological trauma, such as severe emotional, physical, or sexual abuse are more likely to develop mental illness. Children who have experienced neglect or a significant early loss, like death of a parent, are especially vulnerable.
Environmental factors
Stressful life events such as death of a loved one, divorce, loss of job or failing in exam, can trigger mental illness in susceptible persons. Substance abuse can also increase one’s risk of developing mental illness.