Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 33 What are the Risk Factors for Mental Illness? Many factors cause mental illness. Contributing factors include: • genetics, which are influenced by your family history • early life experiences, such as: • abuse • trauma • stressful life events, such as: • financial problems • a loved one's death • divorce • environmental influences on a fetus, such as exposure to drugs or alcohol • your social, economic and educational status What are the symptoms of mental illness? Mental illness involves changes in thinking, mood or behaviour, or a combination of these issues. Symptoms include: • significant distress • inability to function as needed over an extended period of time These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on the: • type of mental illness • individual • family • patient's environment What are the physical health effects of mental illness? Mental health is as important as physical health, and they both directly affect the other. People with physical health problems often experience anxiety or depression, which affects their recovery. Similarly, mental health factors can increase the risk of developing physical problems, such as: • diabetes • heart disease • weight gain or loss canada.ca Business photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com
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