About this Research Topic
Depression is a complex and multifaceted mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in daily activities. It has long been one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, burdening the public mental health. While genetic predisposition and biological factors contribute to the development of depression, there is growing recognition of the significant impact of environmental influences on mental health outcomes. By focusing on environmental risk factors for depression, this Research Topic aims to address a critical public health concern with far-reaching implications for individual well-being and societal health.
We welcome submissions of reviews and articles related to environmental risk factors for depression. The scope of submissions includes but is not limited to:
Childhood Trauma and Early Life Stress: Research on the impact of childhood abuse, neglect, and other adverse experiences on the risk of depression in adulthood, as well as the mechanisms underlying the association between early life stress events and depression.
Socioeconomic Factors: Exploration of the influence of socioeconomic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality on the incidence of depression, analysis of the role of social support systems and community resources in mitigating the risk of depression.
Family and Interpersonal Relationships: Analysis of the role of family dysfunction, intimate relationship conflicts, and social isolation in depression, study of the protective effects of positive family interactions and support networks.
Lifestyle and Behavior: Research on the impact of lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, substance use, etc., on depression, exploration of the potential of healthy behavior interventions in the prevention and treatment of depression.
Natural Environmental Factors and Green Spaces: Exploration of the effects of air pollution, noise pollution, and climate change on mental health, analysis of the potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between environmental stressors and depression.
Understanding the role of environmental risk factors in depression is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing social determinants of mental health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and enhancing access to supportive environments, it may be possible to mitigate the burden of depression and improve overall well-being, finally benefiting public mental health.
We welcome submissions of reviews and articles related to environmental risk factors for depression. The scope of submissions includes but is not limited to:
Childhood Trauma and Early Life Stress: Research on the impact of childhood abuse, neglect, and other adverse experiences on the risk of depression in adulthood, as well as the mechanisms underlying the association between early life stress events and depression.
Socioeconomic Factors: Exploration of the influence of socioeconomic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality on the incidence of depression, analysis of the role of social support systems and community resources in mitigating the risk of depression.
Family and Interpersonal Relationships: Analysis of the role of family dysfunction, intimate relationship conflicts, and social isolation in depression, study of the protective effects of positive family interactions and support networks.
Lifestyle and Behavior: Research on the impact of lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, substance use, etc., on depression, exploration of the potential of healthy behavior interventions in the prevention and treatment of depression.
Natural Environmental Factors and Green Spaces: Exploration of the effects of air pollution, noise pollution, and climate change on mental health, analysis of the potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between environmental stressors and depression.
Understanding the role of environmental risk factors in depression is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing social determinants of mental health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and enhancing access to supportive environments, it may be possible to mitigate the burden of depression and improve overall well-being, finally benefiting public mental health.
Keywords: Depression, Public mental health, Environmental risk factors, Childhood trauma, Socioeconomic factors, Family relationships, Lifestyle behaviors, Natural environment, Mental health equity
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
