"Health Inequities and the Social Determinants of Mental Health".

Although there has been recent public health focus on the social determinants of health, there is surprisingly little emphasis on the social determinants of mental health. These underlying causes of mental illnesses are modifiable precursors to behavioral risk factors, and are largely responsible for social injustice and mental health inequities. This presentation will provide an overview of the social determinants of mental health, review the evidence of mental health inequities in the United States, and consider solutions to addressing the social determinants of mental health from a policy perspective.

 

Dr. Shim is Associate Director of Behavioral Health at the National Center for Primary Care, Vice Chair of Education and Faculty Development and Chief of Outpatient Psychiatry Services in the Department of Psychiatry at Lenox Hill Hospital. Her research interests include mental health stigma, integration of primary care and behavioral health care, and mental health disparities.