In terms of psychological factors, what can trigger the onset of mental illness?

Cognitive distortions refer to the biased perspectives individuals have on themselves and the world around them, which can significantly influence their mental health. These distorted thinking patterns can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. For instance, someone might engage in all-or-nothing thinking, where they see situations in black-and-white terms, which can create unrealistic expectations and result in feelings of failure and hopelessness. Because cognitive distortions alter the way one interprets experiences and events, they play a crucial role in the development and exacerbation of mental illnesses.

The other options, while they can contribute to mental health challenges, do not address the internal psychological processes as directly as cognitive distortions do. Cultural values may shape how individuals perceive and express mental health but do not inherently lead to mental illness. Socio-economic status can influence access to resources and stress levels but is more of an external factor. Social media can impact mental well-being through social comparison and peer pressure, but cognitive distortions are fundamental mental patterns that can be affected by various external influences.