We all know that genetics play an important role in developing several illnesses like – diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart problems, and genetic disorders like Down’s syndrome. In addition, Genetics is the reason why some of us are more adversely affected by environmental stressors than others. For instance, people who smoke or who live in heavily polluted cities are disproportionately affected by respiratory problems.
But wait! Did you know that these genetic predispositions also affect the development of mental disorders?
Mental health disorders are a growing field of concern for people worldwide. While the exact cause and reason for the development of mental health issues are unknown, and multiple factors like genetics, environmental stressors, and lifestyle are found to play a significant role – their exact impact is unknown.
Enter the Diathesis-Stress model.
The Diathesis-Stress model aims to explain the interrelationship between inherited predispositions and environmental stressors in developing mental health issues. Simply said, the model states that the development of mental health disorders results from complex interactions between nature and nurture.
By understanding the Diathesis-Stress model, we can take potent steps to develop resilience toward mental health issues and easily identify potential risk factors.
On that note, let us dive deeper into the working of the Diathesis-Stress model and understand its benefits.
What Is The Diathesis-Stress Model?
The Diathesis-Stress model states that mental health disorders emerge from a complex interplay between stressful environmental situations and genetics. The model also states that a disorder is much more likely to develop if the concerned individual has lived a highly stressful life event.
Unlike Greek and Roman philosophy, the Diathesis-Stress model does not delve into the ranking of the impact of genetics or environment in the occurrence of mental health issues. The model, instead, states that both factors are likely to have a decisive role in the process.
The model aims to explain that some individuals with a greater predisposition or inherited vulnerabilities toward a mental health disorder would need a less stressful life event to develop the disorder. This approach also explains why some individuals can deal with highly stressful life situations and remain mentally healthy.
Types of conditions associated with the model:
- anxiety disorders,
- depression,
- schizophrenia, and
- eating disorders.
The Components Of The Diathesis-Stress Model
1. Diathesis
Diathesis is defined as an individual’s inherited vulnerability toward a mental disorder. It is caused by multiple factors, including:
- genetic factors,
- cognitive factors,
- life experiences, and
- environmental stressors.
Diathesis can be both physical as well as psychological in nature. Initially, medical scientists used the term to understand the emergence of schizophrenia and depression. Later, the application extended to other disorders as well.
Diathesis or vulnerability decides how susceptible an individual is toward a given disorder when faced with environmental stressors. Some examples of these vulnerabilities include genetic variations, life experiences like childhood abuse or loss of a parent, etc.
2. Stress
Stress can be defined as a life event that triggers emotional dishevel and disturbs the natural equilibrium of a person’s life. Stressors can be present in multiple forms – from life events like divorce, death, etc., to daily issues like work or academic deadlines.
Stress highly impacts the development of mental health issues. For instance, a person might be more vulnerable to depressive disorders but might never develop the disorder if they are not exposed to certain stressful life events that can trigger the emergence of depression.
Read more: World Health Day – Prioritizing Equal Mental Healthcare For All
Benefits Of The Diathesis-Stress Model
1. Understanding the cause of the emergence of mental health issues.
Most scientific models tussle between deciding the higher role of genetics or environmental factors in developing mental health issues. However, the Diathesis-Stress model deems the interplay of both genetic and environmental factors as the way to study the emergence of mental health issues.
2. Understanding the risk factors.
Another significant benefit of the model is that it allows us to identify the potential risk factors that can cause the development of mental disorders. By understanding the risk factors, one can potent steps toward avoiding or dealing with these factors.
Read more: Stress Awareness Month: Tips For Coping With Everyday Stress
Conclusion:
The Diathesis-Stress model is an important and effective way to understand the occurrence of mental health disorders. In addition, it can help build psychological strength and identify risk factors for developing mental health issues.
If you or someone you know are dealing with mental health issues, it is crucial to look for professional help. Access to professional help is now easier than ever with the advent of online therapy services. To learn more about online therapy platforms, click here.
To continue learning about mental health issues, Your Mental Health Pal.