This chapter explores the social determinants of mental health, focusing on the
impact of socio
-
economic deprivation and limited access to food on the mental
health of children and adults. Emphasizing the i
mportance of early life
experiences in personality development and mental health, there will be
introduced the concept of attachment theory and its role in emotional and social
development throughout life. Attachment theory is a key framework for
understan
ding development and manifestation of psychopathology and
traumatic experiences. The chapter concludes by addressing eating disorders
and the contextual and individual factors that shape attitudes toward food and
eating habits. Alongside breathing, food in
take is a fundamental form of
metabolic exchange with the external world and serves as a unique bridge
between inner and outer reality. Mental health and associated emotional states
significantly influence the dynamics of one's relationship with their body
and
food, and understanding this interaction requires a holistic approach.
