Causes of Mental Disorders

Numerous factors have been linked to the growth of mental disorders. In many cases there is no single traditional or consistent cause currently recognized. A common view held is that disorders often result from genetic vulnerabilities combining with ecological stressors. An eclectic or pluralistic mix of models may be used to make clear particular disorders. The primary paradigm of modern mainstream Western psychiatry is said to be the biopsychosocial model - incorporating biological, psychological and social factors - though this may not be practical in practice. Biopsychiatry has tended to follow a biomedical model, focusing on "organic" or "hardware" pathology of the brain. Psychoanalytic theory has been accepted but is now less so. Evolutionary psychology may be used as an in general explanatory theory. Attachment theory is another kind of evolutionary-psychological come near sometimes applied in the context for mental disorder. A distinction is occasionally made between a "medical model" or a "social model" of disorder and connected disability.

Genetic studies have indicated that genes often play a significant role in the growth of mental disorders; via developmental pathways interact with environmental factors. The reliable credit of relations between exact genes and specific categories of confusion has proven more difficult.

Environmental events nearby pregnancy and birth have also been concerned. Traumatic brain injury may augment the risk of developing certain mental disorder. There have been some hesitant conflicting links found to certain viral infection, to substance misuse, and to general physical health.

Abnormal performance of neurotransmitter system has been concerned, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine and glutamate system. Differences have also been establishing in the size or movement of certain brains region in some cases. Psychological mechanisms have also been concerned, such as cognitive and emotional process, personality, and personality and coping style.

Social influence has been found to be significant, including abuse, bullying and other negative or stressful life experience. The specific risks and pathways to exacting disorders are less clear, however. Aspects of the wider society have also been concerned, including employment problems, socioeconomic inequality, lack of social cohesion, problems linked to relocation, and features of exacting societies and culture.