Mental health problems can have a wide range of causes. In most cases no-one is sure precisely what the cause of a particular problem is. It is likely hat or many people there is a combination of factors, although some people may be more deeply affected by certain things than others.

The following factors could potentially trigger a period of poor mental health:-

• Childhood abuse, trauma or neglect
• Social isolation or loneliness
• Experiencing discrimination or stigma
• The death of someone close
• Severe or long-term stress
• Unemployment or losing your job
• Social disadvantage, poverty or debt
• Homelessness or poor housing
• Caring for a family member or friend
• A long-term physical health condition
• Drug or alcohol misuse
• Domestic violence or other abuse as an adult
• Significant trauma as an adult
• Physical causes - such as a head injury or a condition such as epilepsy
• Genetic factors