The Biopsychosocial Model

Whenever I meet with a patient, I look to the biopsychosocial model to get a better understanding. Originally developed by psychiatrist, Dr. George Engel, the biopsychosocial model emphasizes the importance of taking into account the biological, psychological, and social factors that impact an individual’s well-being. When it comes to mental health, there’s rarely a single cause—and rarely a single solution. Experiencing anxiety or depression can stem from multiple causes and require multiple solutions. Here is a breakdown of potential factors addressed in each category:

Biological Factors

Brain structure and function

Neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g., serotonin, dopamine)

Hormonal changes

Genetics and family history of mental illness

Effects of medications or substances

Psychological Factors

Emotional regulation and resilience

Cognitive patterns (e.g., negative self-talk, rumination)

Trauma or adverse childhood experiences

Coping strategies and problem-solving skills

Personal beliefs about oneself and the world

Social Factors

Relationships and support systems

Cultural background and identity

Work and financial stress

Experiences of discrimination or stigma

Access to mental health care

Combining the Categories

Collectively, these factors can influence one another. Here is a helpful infograph that demonstrates this:

With this framework in mind, we can better understand what factors may be helping precipitate and perpetuate an individual’s symptoms of depression and anxiety. The ultimate goal here is to shift from asking what’s wrong, but rather, invite the question of what’s happening in this person’s life?