Risks + Proactive Factors

Risk factors are defined as any factor that puts an individual at a higher chance of developing a particular disease or condition. Our focus is on risk factors and protective factors for depression, the mental health issue that we have chosen to focus on. The risk factors which we have identified include: 

• Social withdrawal 

• Negative thinking 

• Helplessness feeling 

The inability to interact with other people such as friends, family or the community is social withdrawal. This can lead to a vicious cycle of isolation that exacerbates depressive symptoms. It includes negative thinking that enhances self-criticism, making people very  hard on themselves and eroding their confidence. Hopelessness is usually associated with isolation and  self-doubt, and it leads to a state that is quite difficult to break through. 

 In order to  counter these risk factors the following are the protective factors that are defined as factors that minimize the chances of  developing negative mental health effects or lessen the effects of risk factors. Some of the protective factors are as  follows: 

• Self care / physical activity

• Laughter and joy 

• Community engagement 

Humor and happiness help to fight depression as they increase the level of endorphins and create positive emotions. Engaging in  community fosters belongingness and reduces social isolation making people feel connected. These acts of kindness whether big  or small also have positive impacts on the recipients but also the giver as it gives the giver a purpose  and releases dopamine. Thus, by paying attention to these factors, we are intending to take a  preventive measure in managing mental health, to help the peers identify the signs of depression before it becomes a  serious issue.