What Is The Diathesis-Stress Model?

Various forms of stress can impact an individual, such as chronic stress, mental burnout, and eustress. One type of stress that has been proposed by theorists Is diathesis stress. Understanding this form may be a way to learn more about your stress responses and find ways to cope with stress healthily and productively. 

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What is the diathesis-stress model? 

Scientists have not comprehensively identified the cause of many mental disorders but often believe they result from an interplay of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. One framework for understanding how these factors work together is the diathesis-stress model. 

This model proposes that each person is, at some degree, vulnerable to developing a psychiatric illness or disorder. Stress can cause the onset of that disorder, and the intensity or amount of stress required to cause it depends on the individual’s vulnerability to it. For example, if someone is highly vulnerable to a disorder, they may be impacted by even a small amount of stress. 

History of the diathesis-stress model

The diathesis-stress model has roots dating back to the 1600s. It became more widely accepted in the 1960s when a psychologist named Paul Meehl proposed the model as a way to explain the cause and pathogenesis of schizophrenia. This model can describe the etiology of several mental health conditions and may improve research, diagnosis, and treatment.

Diathesis and stress

Vulnerability to developing a disorder

Diathesis is a vulnerability. It does not mean that the person will develop a disorder but that they are more at risk of developing one in the presence of certain environmental factors. 

Certain factors can contribute to diathesis, including: 

• Genetics
• Past trauma
• Neurological or cognitive factors 
• Situational factors
• An avoidant attachment style
• Loneliness
• Temperament

Stressors

Anything that causes emotional or physical tension or negatively impacts a person’s well-being can be considered a stressor. Stressful life events may include the following: 

• The death of a loved one
• Conflict with a spouse, coworker, or family member
• A close family member or friend moving away
• The end of a romantic relationship
• Being excluded by peers
• Being unemployed or underemployed
• Experiencing a traumatic event 

The stress required to cause a mental disorder in someone with a predisposition to it does not have to be significant. The more predisposed someone is to mental health conditions, the less stress it may take to cause one.

Conditions linked to the diathesis-stress model

The diathesis-stress model has been used to explain the development of a variety of mental health conditions, including the following. 

Anxiety disorders

The causes of anxiety are not fully understood. However, inherited traits and other factors can make people more prone to it, and anxiety disorders can be incited by stressful experiences and traumatic events.

Major depressive disorder

Major depressive disorder is generally believed to result from a combination of genetic factors, faulty mood regulation in the brain, and stress. Life stress research has found that those with a combined vulnerability who have experienced a high number of stressful events are more at risk for developing depression. 

Schizophrenia and other disorders under the schizophrenia spectrum

Several factors can contribute to someone developing schizophrenia, including genetics, brain structure, cognitive function, and environmental factors. Studies show that there is no single gene that causes schizophrenia, but multiple genes can increase a person’s chance of being diagnosed. This also includes other psychotic disorders which are schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, schizotypal personality disorder, schizophreniform disorder, brief psychotic disorder, and psychosis associated with substance use or medical conditions.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

While some people develop PTSD after traumatic experiences, others can return to healthy functioning. Researchers believe that the diathesis-stress model may explain why. This research also questions whether the high levels of comorbidity of anxiety and depression in people with PTSD may suggest that these two conditions can act as predisposing factors.

Eating disorders

Recent research suggests that the diathesis-stress model can apply to eating disorders. Researchers believe that the development of eating disorders occurs as a result of an interaction between a cognitive or biological predisposition and “severe environmental events.”

What about protective factors? 

Just as there are risk factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing mental health conditions in the diathesis-stress model, there are protective factors. Protective factors can reduce stress and counter biological vulnerability, lowering the risk of developing mental health disorders by improving resilience and decreasing the effects of stress. Protective factors can include the following:

• Medication that lessens symptoms and lowers relapse risk
• Positive coping skills
• A supportive environment
• Improved self-esteem
• Emotional competence
• A supportive relationship with a caregiver
• A secure attachment style

Tips for managing stress

Learning to manage stress may not prevent psychological disorders, but it can help people develop resilience and better coping skills and may act as a protective factor. According to the American Psychological Association, the following are ways to combat negative stress.

Eliminating the stressor

While removing stressors from your life completely may be difficult, you may control how you think about and react to them. For example, evaluate if there is anything you can change, like relaxing your standards or asking for help. 

Cultivating a support network

A strong support network may improve resilience to stress, and those in your life can help in different ways. Some people may excel at listening, while others might be skillful at offering practical health care, like babysitting or bringing over a meal.

Eating healthy, balanced meals

Different types of stress can cause various types of cravings. For example, acute stress can completely suppress the appetite, while chronic stress can cause individuals to crave certain foods. Nutrient-rich eating may give the body the support to manage challenges. Although alcohol may seem like it reduces stress, drinking does not eliminate stress and may have serious health effects.

Relaxing your muscles

Stress can lead to muscle tension and pain, headaches, and fatigue. Relaxing your muscles with a warm bath, massage, or progressive muscle relaxation may help.

Meditating

Mindful meditation can reduce anxiety and stress. Research shows that even setting aside five minutes to sit quietly, practice deep breathing, and focus on the present moment can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. 

Prioritizing sleep

Not getting enough sleep can impact your mood and thinking. Try establishing a consistent sleep routine. Allow yourself time to wind down before bed, and try meditation and relaxation exercises to help you relax. Avoid alcohol and caffeine in the late afternoon and evening, and avoid looking at blue screens, like your smartphone and tablet, as they can affect the release of melatonin and prevent you from becoming tired at bedtime.

Engaging in physical activity

Exercise and other physical activity can improve sleep and combat stress. Try taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes every day or engaging in something you enjoy, like dancing, swimming, or cycling.

Seeking professional support 

If these self-help strategies aren’t working and you are not feeling any improvement or are feeling worse, talking to a mental health professional can help. A skilled therapist can work with you to identify situations contributing to your stress and develop a plan to cope and manage them. 

If you’re experiencing stress, online therapy can be a convenient and flexible way to attend therapy. With an online platform like BetterHelp, you can work with a mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. In addition, you can change providers at any time for no additional fee until you find the right fit.

Research shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person treatment, making it an accessible and effective alternative for people seeking the support of a mental health professional.