This session is focused on the social determinants of mental health and mental illnesses; those factors stemming from where we grow, live, work, learn, and age that impact our overall mental health and well-being, and those factors that contribute to mental illnesses. Although there has been considerable recent focus on the social determinants of physical health, there has been surprisingly little emphasis on the social determinants of mental health. Special consideration will be given to the social determinants of mental health, as they are largely neglected with regard to their role in causing and worsening mental illnesses. These underlying causes of mental illnesses are modifiable precursors to behavioral risk factors and are largely responsible for social injustice and mental health inequities. 

Ruth Shim, MD, MPH, Vice Chair, Education and Faculty Development and Chief of Outpatient Services, Department of Psychiatry, Lenox Hill Hospital; Associate Professor, Hofstra North Shore - LIJ School of Medicine will provide an overview of important concepts and present evidence that supports the existence of these determinants. She will also discuss research, policy, and practice-based solutions.

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