Factors that influence mental health in young people cont.
nutrition, environmental toxins, prenatal care, and neighbourhood are also relevant (58). The risk of developing depression, psychosis, or an anxiety disorder has been found to be higher in urban dwellers than those who live outside the city. Studies have identified many factors related to a built-up environment, such as reduced access to green spaces and high levels of noise and air pollution. Other factors pertain to the social environment, such as perceived and actual crime and social inequalities (59). On the other hand, living in rural and remote areas often means young people can feel socially isolated. Public Health England found that young people in predominantly rural areas are more likely to engage in risky behaviour, alcohol consumption and smoking, and experience bullying (3). Funding for mental health tends to be focused on ‘according to need’ i.e. where there are higher percentages of those registered with serious mental health conditions. As noted above this tends to be in urban areas. This can mean young people living in rural and remote areas have to travel greater distances to access mental health services, which can be further impacted by a lack of regular public transport (60). Substance misuse Why can this be a risk factor? Substance misuse is preventable but common. All drugs have the potential to cause harm and can be a risk to a young person’s development and health. What do we need to know? Alcohol and tobacco are strongly addictive and commonly used amongst teenagers and young adults. Lots of adults in a young
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