How Chrysalis Uses Social Determinants of Health

How Chrysalis Uses Social Determinants of Health

In our focus on security of girls and women (part of our mission to ensure the safety, security, education, and economic empowerment of girls and women in Greater Des Moines, we define “security” as a state of well-being. Physical, mental, and emotional well-being. A healthy state of being.

And although we all have a personal responsibility to take care of ourselves and our own well-being, for many, factors outside of their control – such as where they’re born or who their parents are – affect the ability to be healthy and “well.”  These are among the factors that are termed “social determinants” of health, which have been extensively researched to determine issues related to the health and well-being of individuals, families, communities, and society. (The World Health Organization’s Commission on Social Determinants of Health issued a report stating that the social conditions in which people are born, live, and work are the single most important determinant of individual and population health.)

Social determinants of health and well-being are conditions in the environments in which people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and grow old. All have a significant effect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks. Social, economic, and physical conditions in our environments and settings (school, church, workplace, and neighborhood) are linked to well-being.

Understanding and addressing the social determinants for a community are necessary methods for making change. They help identify the root causes or problems, inform strategy and tactics to respond, and influence work toward broad, long-term solutions. Social determinants are critical to effective prevention.

HOW DOES CHRYSALIS USE THIS INFORMATION?

Addressing the issue is not enough.  We understand that the issues and barriers affecting girls and women have multiple causes. If we only “fix” the situation, we will never reach into the root cause to create long-term change. For example, our work is to help change a culture that creates violence.

Working toward long-term solutions to long-term problems.  Understanding these determinants helps us more effectively work with –and educate- others to take a role in the solution.

Focusing on broad community well-being.  For example, when we work to reduce/eliminate violence in the lives of girls and women, we address all factors contributing to a culture of violence – stereotypes, culture, environment, attitudes, biases, personal experiences, etc.

Hearing the community.  In serving on community panels and committee, talking with community leaders, hearing from our nonprofit partners, and getting input from girls, we know the reality of the conditions in which girls and women live. We are also better able to develop and implement our strategies toward how, when, and where we can make the most difference.

As we look ahead to better educating the public (and decision-makers), our public awareness and advocacy efforts will be critical to focus on long-term change.