Psychological distress stems from a variety of factors, impacting individuals differently. It's characterized by symptoms like sleep disturbances, sadness, fatigue, appetite changes, and weight fluctuations. While everyone experiences stress uniquely, extreme fatigue, sadness, avoidance behaviors, fear, and anxiety are common manifestations.
Major Contributing Factors:
1. Traumatic Experiences:
Past traumas significantly contribute to psychological distress. These can include accidents, abuse, violence, or significant losses. The impact of trauma can be long-lasting and influence mental wellbeing, potentially triggering anxiety, depression, or PTSD. https://www.healtheuniversity.ca/EN/CardiacCollege/Wellbeing/Stress_And_Sense_Of_Control/Pages/psychological-distress.aspx
2. Major Life Changes:
Significant life events like job loss, relationship breakdowns, bereavement, or relocation can trigger intense stress and psychological distress. These changes disrupt routines and create uncertainty, affecting mental health. https://www.healtheuniversity.ca/EN/CardiacCollege/Wellbeing/Stress_And_Sense_Of_Control/Pages/psychological-distress.aspx
3. Medical Illnesses:
Chronic illnesses or severe medical conditions can lead to psychological distress. The pain, limitations, and uncertainty associated with illness significantly affect mental health. Pre-existing anxiety or depression can exacerbate this distress. https://msktc.org/burn/factsheets/psychological-distress-after-burn-injury
4. Everyday Stressors:
Daily pressures from work, family, relationships, and financial difficulties cumulatively contribute to psychological distress. These stressors, when prolonged or overwhelming, can negatively impact mental well-being. https://www.healtheuniversity.ca/EN/CardiacCollege/Wellbeing/Stress_And_Sense_Of_Control/Pages/psychological-distress.aspx
Symptoms of Psychological Distress:
- Extreme fatigue
- Sadness
- Avoidance behaviors
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Irritability or restlessness
- Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
- Self-criticism
- Anger, edginess, or lashing out
Additional Factors:
- Gender: Psychological distress is more prevalent in women. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-021-10560-y
- Social factors: Societal pressures and institutional structures can significantly contribute to psychological distress. https://www.amazon.com/Social-Causes-Psychological-Distress-Institutions/dp/0202307093
