The Commercial Determinants of Mental Health
The Commercial Determinants of Mental Health: How Businesses and Policies Shape Wellbeing
In a world driven by economic systems and corporate interests, mental health is often influenced by forces far beyond individual control. A new report by the Centre for Mental Health highlights the commercial determinants of mental health—the ways in which businesses, policies, and economic structures shape mental wellbeing, particularly for marginalised communities. At Nafsiyat, we witness these effects daily and work to support individuals navigating these challenges through our Community Links & Social Justice programme.
The Hidden Forces Impacting Mental Health
While mental health is often discussed in terms of personal resilience and individual therapy, the reality is that wider social and economic factors play a significant role. The Centre for Mental Health’s report highlights four key areas where commercial interests affect mental wellbeing:
1. Financial Stress and Debt
The rising cost of living, aggressive advertising, and easy access to credit can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness. Many people feel pressured to keep up with consumer trends, while others struggle to meet basic needs. Economic instability often leads to chronic stress, which is linked to poor mental health outcomes.
2. Insecure Work and Low Pay
The gig economy, zero-hour contracts, and poor working conditions create uncertainty and financial insecurity, which in turn impact mental health. Without stable employment, individuals face ongoing stress about paying rent, affording food, and supporting their families. Workplaces with high pressure and poor mental health support also contribute to rising cases of burnout and anxiety.
3. Unaffordable and Unstable Housing
Secure housing is fundamental to mental wellbeing, yet in cities like London, high rents and overcrowding put significant pressure on individuals and families. Housing insecurity, eviction threats, and poor living conditions can all contribute to depression, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness.
4. The Influence of Unhealthy Food Environments
The marketing and availability of processed, unhealthy foods disproportionately affect lower-income communities, leading to diet-related health issues that also impact mental wellbeing. Poor nutrition is linked to increased risks of depression and anxiety, yet healthy food is often more expensive and less accessible.
How Nafsiyat is Responding
At Nafsiyat, we see first-hand how these systemic inequalities impact mental health. Our Community Links & Social Justice programme provides practical support alongside therapy to address these issues holistically. Through this initiative, we:
Help individuals access welfare benefits and financial assistance.
Provide guidance on housing rights and support individuals at risk of eviction.
Offer assistance to those facing workplace discrimination or poor employment conditions.
Support clients navigating immigration and legal challenges that affect their mental health.
We believe that addressing mental health means tackling its root causes—not just offering therapy, but working towards systemic change.
The Need for Policy and Structural Reform
While individual support is crucial, real change requires a shift in policy. Governments, businesses, and communities must work together to:
Ensure fair wages and secure employment conditions.
Regulate advertising and financial practices that exploit vulnerable groups.
Invest in affordable, quality housing to support mental wellbeing.
Make healthy food accessible for all communities.
At Nafsiyat, we continue to advocate for a mental health system that recognises these commercial determinants and works to dismantle the barriers that marginalised communities face.