Understanding the Social Determinants of Health
Health is shaped by more than medical care. The conditions we live and grow in impact our well-being every day.
Introduction
During Homelessness Action Week (Oct 11–18), I often think about the many factors that influence health in our community — far beyond what happens inside an exam room. Challenges with housing, income, food access, and stability can impact a person long before they ever see a healthcare provider.
This page brings together the Social Determinants of Health we discussed throughout the week, along with several additional factors from The Canadian Facts that we didn’t highlight on social media. My goal is to provide a clear, accessible resource for understanding how health is shaped in our community.
What Are the Social Determinants of Health?
The Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are the social and economic conditions that influence a person’s well-being. According to The Canadian Facts, there are 17 determinants — each affecting stability, opportunity, and health outcomes across a lifetime.
These determinants include income, housing, education, food security, social support, and more. When even one of these determinants faces insecurity, a person’s health can be affected.
Below is an overview of all 17 determinants — including those discussed during Homelessness Action Week and those that were not.
Determinants Discussed During Homelessness Action Week
Housing
Safe, stable housing supports physical and mental health. Without it, risks of illness, injury, and stress increase significantly. Ref: 29
Food Insecurity
Limited access to safe, nutritious, affordable food is strongly linked to chronic disease, fatigue, and mental health concerns. Ref: 27
Income & Income Distribution
Income is one of the strongest predictors of health. Low income increases the risk of housing instability, food insecurity, and chronic stress. Ref: 15–18
Employment & Working Conditions
Stable, meaningful employment benefits physical and mental health. Unemployment or unstable conditions increase stress and illness risk. Ref: 18
Access to Health Services
Access to timely, appropriate healthcare is essential. Without stable housing or transportation, people often struggle to access care or rely on emergency services. Ref: 37
Social Exclusion
When people experience stigma, discrimination, or isolation, both mental and physical health can decline. Community belonging is a strong protective factor. Ref: 32
Indigenous Status
Indigenous communities continue to experience the health impacts of colonization, systemic racism, and intergenerational trauma. Culturally safe and community-led care remains essential. Ref: 39
Additional Determinants Not Covered During HAW
These determinants also play vital roles in shaping community health and will be explored in future educational content:
Education
Education improves employment opportunities, income, and long-term health outcomes. Ref: 20
Early Childhood Development
Experiences in early childhood — including stability, nutrition, and supportive relationships — shape lifelong physical and mental health. Ref: 22
Social Safety Network
Supports such as income assistance, housing programs, and community services help buffer individuals during times of hardship. Ref: 24
Gender
Gender affects health risks, access to care, and inequities in services. Ref: 42
Race
Racism and racial discrimination lead to inequitable health outcomes across many areas of health. Ref: 43
Disability
People living with disabilities may encounter barriers to employment, income stability, and accessible care. Ref: 45
Geography
Where someone lives — urban, rural, or remote — influences access to food, housing, services, and transportation. Ref: 47
Immigration
Newcomers may face challenges including income insecurity, limited access to services, or systemic barriers that affect well-being. Ref: 49
Globalization
Global economic and social forces impact local employment, access to resources, and population health. Ref: 51
Together, all 17 determinants help create a more complete picture of health and well-being.
What This Means for Our Community
During Homelessness Action Week, we discussed how these determinants connect directly to homelessness in New Westminster. Housing, income, food access, and access to care play a major role in shaping well-being long after the week ends.
At Foundations Naturopathic Health, I see how these factors show up in daily practice — whether it’s a patient struggling with food insecurity, navigating unstable housing, or experiencing challenges accessing services.
Understanding these determinants helps us offer more compassionate, context-aware care.
Supporting Community Health Year-Round
During Homelessness Action Week, we collected emergency blankets to support community members during the cold season. While HAW happens once a year, the need in our community continues throughout the year.
We welcome donations year-round, including:
Emergency blankets
Seasonal necessities (socks, gloves, warm clothing)
$10 grocery or Tim Hortons gift cards
Hygiene supplies
Message us to arrange drop-off at the clinic, or request pickup in downtown New Westminster.
All items are distributed through the UGM New Westminster centre.
Continuing the Work
Homelessness Action Week happens once a year, but the work toward health equity continues throughout the year.
My hope is that this page helps shed light on how interconnected our health truly is — and how each determinant plays a role in shaping well-being for individuals and communities.
If you have questions or wish to learn more, you’re always welcome to reach out.
Warmly,
Dr. Heidi Standeven, ND
Foundations Naturopathic Health
References
Mikkonen, J., & Raphael, D. The Canadian Facts (2nd Ed.). https://thecanadianfacts.org/The_Canadian_Facts.pdf
BC Housing. https://www.bchousing.org
Statistics Canada. https://www.statcan.gc.ca
Union Gospel Mission (UGM). https://www.ugm.ca