By being aware of risk factors, recognizing signs and symptoms, and promoting a supportive environment, we can enhance our ability to identify mental health issues early on and provide the necessary support and resources for individuals in need.

Individual attributes are one of the contributing factors to mental health and well-being. As such, there are specific adverse factors that can have a negative impact on mental health.

Those factors can lead to feelings of inadequacy, difficulties in managing and regulating emotions, making decisions effectively and/or challenges in coping with stressful situations.

Loneliness is a particular burden for young people, while alongside social isolation other factors that increase suicide risk are chronic mental health conditions and financial difficulties (OECD, 2021).

Someone whose life is marked by diminishing opportunities, social exclusion and economic insecurity will have a different mental health trajectory to that of someone who grew up in, and continues to have, a stable, supportive home, work and social environment (WHO, 2022b).

Addressing these factors requires a multi-faceted approach in which it is essential to work on building inclusive societies. Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is crucial for creating an environment where individuals feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek help.