A review published online in PLOS Global Public Health on August 28 highlights the growing evidence that commercial determinants—such as alcohol, social media, and other unhealthy commodities—are closely associated with negative mental health outcomes. The review, conducted by Kate Dun-Campbell, M.B.Ch.B., from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and her team, synthesizes findings from 65 systematic reviews to explore the impact of these commercial products on mental health.

The study identifies significant associations between several commercial factors and various mental health conditions. Specifically, the researchers found evidence linking alcohol, tobacco, gambling, social media, ultraprocessed foods, and air pollution with increased rates of depression. Additionally, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, social media, climate change, and air pollution were associated with higher suicide rates, while climate change and air pollution were connected to heightened anxiety levels. Social media, in particular, was also associated with an increased risk of self-harm.

"The evidence bases for ultraprocessed foods, gambling, social media, and climate change are less developed but already include high-quality reviews demonstrating associations between these industries and various negative mental health outcomes," the authors noted in their report.

Despite these findings, the researchers emphasized a concerning gap in research exploring the broader impact of corporate activities on mental health. "There is a striking lack of research examining the wider actions of corporations on mental health outcomes," the study states, calling for commercial determinants to be routinely included within frameworks for assessing and improving mental health.

The review underscores the need for more comprehensive research and policy action to address the mental health challenges posed by commercial determinants. As evidence grows linking these industries to adverse mental health outcomes, there is an increasing urgency to consider their role in public health strategies aimed at improving mental well-being.