Which of the following events is considered a potential trigger for developing a mental disorder?

The death of a loved one is considered a potential trigger for developing a mental disorder because it represents a significant loss and can evoke intense emotional responses, such as grief and sadness. This type of event can lead to complicated grief or even more serious mental health issues like depression or anxiety, particularly if the individual does not have strong coping mechanisms or social support in place. The emotional distress experienced during such a profound loss may overwhelm an individual, making them vulnerable to mental health challenges.

Promotions at work, graduations, and buying a house, while they can be stressful, are typically viewed as positive life events. These types of events may also introduce challenges and adjustments, but they generally do not carry the same emotional weight or potential for trauma as the death of a loved one. In this context, the latter event has a more direct association with the onset of mental disorders due to the nature of grief and the impact of loss on mental well-being.