Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from surprisingly prevalent mental health issues. Mental disorders are health conditions that influence a person's perceptions, emotions, and behaviours. They have a substantial impact on a person's life, including how they deal with life events, make a living, and interact with others. 

According to research conducted by National Institute of Mental Health (US), mental disorders are a result of interaction between biological, environmental, psychological and genetic factors. With an emphasis on the connection between genetics and mental health, this article will help you recognize risk factors and find your way to getting help.

The Genetics of Mental Illness

For a long time, it was believed that environmental factors such as stress, trauma, or substance abuse were the only causes of mental health conditions. However, current scientific findings present a more nuanced picture. 

A gene is the functional component of inheritance that passes on parental traits like blood type, eye colour, and so forth from generation to generation. Specific genetic variants can predispose people to acquiring certain mental health issues. For example, studies have found that mutations in the COMT gene are connected to an increased risk of developing schizophrenia. Similar to this, mutations in the SLC6A4 gene have been linked to a higher chance of developing depression. Numerous genes, including the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene and the serotonin transporter gene, may have a role in the onset of depression, according to additional research.

Knowing Your Lineage

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Examining your family history is one of the most accessible ways to gain insight into your genetic risk factors. If close relatives, such as parents or siblings, have a diagnosed mental health illness, it is prudent to be extra mindful of your own mental health. However, the lack of mental illness in your family doesn't mitigate your own risk. It is critical to remember that mental health issues can manifest distinctively across generations. For example, a parent with depression might have a child who struggles with anxiety. Furthermore, the expression of genes can be strongly influenced by environmental factors. Childhood trauma or chronic stress in adulthood can alter your genetic makeup, making you more vulnerable.

Disorders With A Strong Genetic Association

While genetics play a role in various mental health conditions, some disorders have a stronger link. Here are a few examples:

• Mood Disorders: Conditions like depression and bipolar disorder have a well-established genetic component. According to studies, your risk may double if you have a close relative who suffers from these conditions.

• Anxiety Disorders: There is a genetic element to phobias, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.

• Schizophrenia: There is a complex genetic inheritance pattern associated with this severe mental illness. Although having a parent or sibling with schizophrenia greatly raises the likelihood, it is not guaranteed.

 •Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): These neurodevelopmental conditions have a strong hereditary component as children of parents who have these disorders are more likely to experience it themselves. ASDs are highly heritable, with 65–90% of the phenotypic diversity explained by genetic variables, according to family and twin studies.

Genes Don't Dictate Your Destiny: The Importance Of Seeking Help

It can be empowering to know your genetic risk factors. It enables you to take greater charge of your mental well-being. Here are a few strategies for taking command:

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It's crucial to remember that genetics is only one part of the picture. While genetics may predispose you to certain conditions, your environment and lifestyle choices have a big influence on your mental health. We at Heart It Out can support you in making better decisions about your mental health by helping you identify your risk factors, put self-care first, and get expert assistance. 

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“You can't CHANGE your Genes, but you can MODIFY Genetic Expression. ”
- Bryce Wylde