Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom

Ugochi John Paul Agbo

doi:doi:10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Research Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom

Ugochi John Paul Agbo^*

Published in Science Discovery Psychology (Volume 1, Issue 1)

Received: 25 May 2025 Accepted: 18 June 2025 Published: 25 February 2026

Views: Downloads:

Download PDF

Share This Article

Twitter
Linked In
Facebook

Abstract

Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.

Published in	Science Discovery Psychology (Volume 1, Issue 1)
DOI	10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
Page(s)	13-28
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Mental Health, Genetic Predisposition, Biological Aging, Social Determinants, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Schizophrenia, Depression, Social Isolation, United Kingdom Mental Health Policy

References

[1]	Aartsen, M. and Jylhä, M. Onset of loneliness in older adults: results of a 28 year prospective study. European Journal of Ageing, 8(1), pp. 31–38. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10433-011-0175-7
[2]	Adela-Maria Isvoranu, Epskamp, S., Waldorp, L. J. and Borsboom, D. Network Psychometrics with R. Routledge eBooks. Informa. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003111238
[3]	Advanced Search. University Librarian. University Librarian. Available at: https://www.universitylibrarian.com/blog/advanced-search-operators/ [Accessed 18 Jan. 2025].
[4]	Affleck, W., Carmichael, V. and Whitley, R. Men’s Mental Health: Social Determinants and Implications for Services. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, [online] 63(9), pp. 581–589. https://doi.org/10.1177/0706743718762388
[5]	Age UK. Hidden in plain sight The unmet mental health needs of older people. Available at: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/siteassets/documents/reports-and-publications/reports-and-briefings/health--wellbeing/rb_oct16_hidden_in_plain_sight_older_peoples_mental_health.pdf
[6]	Allen, J., Balfour, R., Bell, R. and Marmot, M. Social Determinants of Mental Health. International Review of Psychiatry, 26(4), pp. 392–407.
[7]	Almutairi, R., Alsarraf, A., Alkandari, D., Ashkanani, H., Albazali, A., Almutairi, R., Alsarraf, A., Alkandari, D., Ashkanani, H. K. A. H. A. and Albazali, A. Dissecting Through the Literature: A Review of the Critical Appraisal Process. Cureus, 16(5). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.59658
[8]	Amaro, H., Garcia, S., Arnaudova, I. and Jolles, M. P. Sociocultural Environments and Health Disparities Research. The Science of Health Disparities Research, pp. 77–93. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119374855.ch5
[9]	Amaro, H., Sanchez, M., Bautista, T. and Cox, R. Social vulnerabilities for substance use: Stressors, socially toxic environments, and discrimination and racism. Neuropharmacology, 188(188). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108518
[10]	Amroussia, N., Gustafsson, P. E. and Mosquera, P. A. Explaining mental health inequalities in Northern Sweden: a decomposition analysis. Global Health Action, 10(1), p. 1305814. https://doi.org/10.1080/16549716.2017.1305814
[11]	Andrade, C. Sample Size and Its Importance in Research. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 42(1), pp. 102–103. https://doi.org/10.4103/IJPSYM.IJPSYM_504_19
[12]	Andrade, C. The inconvenient truth about convenience and purposive samples. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 43(1), pp. 86–88. https://doi.org/10.1177/0253717620977000
[13]	Anvari, F., Efendić, E., Olsen, J., Arslan, R. C., Elson, M. and Schneider, I. K.. Bias in Self-Reports: An Initial Elevation Phenomenon. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 14(6), p. 194855062211291. https://doi.org/10.1177/19485506221129160
[14]	Andrade C. The inconvenient truth about convenience and purposive samples. Indian J Psychol Med. 2021; 43(1): 86–8. https://doi.org/10.1177/0253717620977000
[15]	Anvari F, Efendić E, Olsen J, Arslan RC, Elson M, Schneider IK. Bias in self-reports: an initial elevation phenomenon. Soc Psychol Personal Sci. 2022; 14(6): 194855062211291. https://doi.org/10.1177/19485506221129139
[16]	Beck, T. W. (2013). The Importance of A Priori Sample Size Estimation in Strength and Conditioning Research. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 27(8), pp.2323–2337. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0b013e318278eea0
[17]	Behere, A. P., Basnet, P. and Campbell, P. (2017). Effects of Family Structure on Mental Health of children: A Preliminary Study. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, [online] 39(4), pp. 457–463. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.211767
[18]	Biazoli, C. E., Sato, J. R. and Pluess, M. (2024). Causal relationships in longitudinal observational data: An integrative modeling approach. Psychological Methods. https://doi.org/10.1037/met0000648
[19]	Bick, J., Zhu, T., Stamoulis, C., Fox, N. A., Zeanah, C. and Nelson, C. A. (2015). Effect of Early Institutionalization and Foster Care on Long-term White Matter Development. JAMA Pediatrics, [online] 169(3), p.8/211. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2014.3212
[20]	Blackburn, E. H., Epel, E. S. and Lin, J. (2015). Human telomere biology: A contributory and interactive factor in aging, disease risks, and protection. Science, 350(6265), pp.1193–1198. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aab3389
[21]	Boddie, K. (2024). Determining if the 10% Rule is Satisfied When Sampling is Done Without Replacement. Available at: https://study.com/skill/learn/determining-if-the-10-rule-is-satisfied-when-sampling-is-done-without-replacement-explanation.html
[22]	Bodeker, G., Pecorelli, S., Choy, L., Guerra, R. and Kariippanon, K. (2020). Well-Being and Mental Wellness. Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Global Public Health. https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190632366.013.162
[23]	Braveman, P., Egerter, S. and Williams, D.R. (2011). The Social Determinants of Health: Coming of Age. Annual Review of Public Health, [online] 32(1), pp. 381–398. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-031210-101218

Cite This Article

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Agbo, U. J. P. (2026). Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Science Discovery Psychology, 1(1), 13-28. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

ACS Style

Agbo, U. J. P. Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Sci. Discov. Psychol. 2026, 1(1), 13-28. doi: 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

AMA Style

Agbo UJP. Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Sci Discov Psychol. 2026;1(1):13-28. doi: 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12,
  author = {Ugochi John Paul Agbo},
  title = {Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom},
  journal = {Science Discovery Psychology},
  volume = {1},
  number = {1},
  pages = {13-28},
  doi = {10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.sdps.20260101.12},
  abstract = {Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.},
 year = {2026}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom
AU  - Ugochi John Paul Agbo
Y1  - 2026/02/25
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
T2  - Science Discovery Psychology
JF  - Science Discovery Psychology
JO  - Science Discovery Psychology
SP  - 13
EP  - 28
PB  - Science Publishing Group
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
AB  - Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.
VL  - 1
IS  - 1
ER  -

Copy | Download

Author Information

Ugochi John Paul Agbo

Public Health, University of Derby, Derby, United Kingdom

Contact Email

Download PDF

Submit an Article

Sections

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Agbo, U. J. P. (2026). Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Science Discovery Psychology, 1(1), 13-28. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

ACS Style

Agbo, U. J. P. Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Sci. Discov. Psychol. 2026, 1(1), 13-28. doi: 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

AMA Style

Agbo UJP. Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom. Sci Discov Psychol. 2026;1(1):13-28. doi: 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12,
  author = {Ugochi John Paul Agbo},
  title = {Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom},
  journal = {Science Discovery Psychology},
  volume = {1},
  number = {1},
  pages = {13-28},
  doi = {10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.sdps.20260101.12},
  abstract = {Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.},
 year = {2026}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom
AU  - Ugochi John Paul Agbo
Y1  - 2026/02/25
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
T2  - Science Discovery Psychology
JF  - Science Discovery Psychology
JO  - Science Discovery Psychology
SP  - 13
EP  - 28
PB  - Science Publishing Group
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.12
AB  - Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.
VL  - 1
IS  - 1
ER  -

Copy | Download