- Stressful life situations 
- Traumatic life experiences 
- Low self-esteem 

Syracuse University

Factors that predispose adults and children to develop a mental disorder
- Biological 
- Psychological 
- Social 
- Spiritual 
- Cultural

Risk Factors for Developing a Mental Disorder

Risk and protective factors. The American Mental Wellness Association . (n.d.). Retrieved January 6, 2022, from https://www.americanmentalwellness.org/prevention/risk-and-protective-factors/ 

Risk and Protective Factors 

Types of Risk factors

- Family history of mental illness 
- History of traumatic brain injury 
- Pregnancy/birth complications 
- Chronic medical conditions 
- Alcohol or drug use 
- Poor nutrition
- Lack of sleep 

Biophysical Risk Factors

Psychological Risk factors

- Experiencing abuse or neglect 
- Bullying (victim or perpetrator)
- Recent loss 
- Poor social/communication skills 
- Experiencing poverty 
- Discrimination 
- Lack of access to support services 

Social Risk Factors

- Perception of being irredeemable or inherently flawed beyond repair 
- Perception of insignificance
- Conflicting thoughts or doubts surrounding deep religious beliefs

Spiritual Risk Factors

- Maternal Early Life Maltreatment (ELM)
- Maternal History of Depression (HoD)

Risk Factors for Child Psychopathology

References for Risk Factors

Experiences that occur during childhood or adolescence that are potentially traumatic. Examples of these events include neglect, parental conflict, mental illness, substance abuse, sexual abuse, etc. 

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

1. Cultural Stigma
2. Understanding symptoms
3. Community Support
4. Resources

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