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The Layers

Societal

References
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The Societal layer explores how large-scale factors–such as the criminal legal system and the economy–shape the environments in which we live and interact. These societal determinants help us identify systemic opportunities that build resilience and support positive health outcomes. 

Evidence Supported Themes

Media messaging shapes how people perceive & respond to mental health 2

Rapid changes in technology impact mental health development 5

Environmental forces & disasters can have detrimental impact &/or build resilience 3

Societal conflict, political crises, migration, displacement, war & civil strife heighten risk 3

The economic conditions into which a person is born & raised can shape their overall quality of life & their mental health outcomes 3,7,11

Children’s well-being is influenced by their parent’s mental health knowledge 10

Resource allocation shapes opportunities & impacts the ability to meet basic needs 3

Social exclusion & unfair treatment based on personal characteristics can negatively affect emotional well-being & psychological resilience 4,7,10

Strong ties to cultural & social identity are protective of well-being 3

Family norms, values & expectations can be stressful & also help us feel loved2

HIV stigma persists 7

Norms shape how we feel about mental illness, coping, stress & belonging 7,10

Law enforcement practices have unintended consequences on some communities13

Social well-being is a public experience, not a private phenomenon 6

Stigma & bias surrounding mental illness shape how people think about mental health & mental illness6,7,10

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