Social Determinants of Health and Their Impact on Mental Health and Substance Misuse

Abstract

Health and wellbeing are shaped by many factors beyond healthcare and behavioral choices, including conditions that make up our social, economic, and physical environments. These factors are often referred to as social determinants of health (SDoHs). SDoHs not only affect our physical health, but they also can have an impact on a person’s mental wellbeing and substance use. These social determinants of health can be grouped into five major categories: 1) Neighborhood and built environment, 2) Health and healthcare, 3) Social and community context, 4) Education, 5) Economic stability. To address SDoHs effectively, a “health in all policies” approach that integrates health considerations into policymaking across sectors is essential.