In the field of health, genetics is playing an increasingly important role in understanding different diseases. However, when talking about mental health, many people feel that genetics has nothing to do with it. The reality, however, is different.
Genetics has an impact on both our personality and our mental health, and knowing how it affects you brings the same benefits as for any other pathology. However, lack of knowledge and misinformation about genetics can have a significant negative impact on people’s mental health.
Why can not knowing your genetics influence your mental health?
Genetics can provide us with valuable information about our susceptibility to certain mental illnesses. This information allows us to make more informed and appropriate decisions. It can also make it easier for us to seek the help we need, both at a personal and family level, as well as at a professional level.
When we are unaware of our genetic predisposition to certain mental disorders, we miss the opportunity to take preventive measures and seek appropriate support. Furthermore, it is important to understand how genetics works and that it is neither deterministic, nor does it set an unchangeable destiny. Misinformation in this regard can lead to people’s discomfort.
Does knowing your genetics make you uneasy?
Many people may feel fear and anxiety when learning about their genetic predisposition to something negative. That is why it is important that people who are going to obtain this information feel properly informed about the benefits and limitations. It is also crucial to rely on professionals, who provide clear and detailed knowledge about genetic processes.
To underline then that genetic predisposition to a disorder, for example, is not a definitive sentence or a determinant of an individual’s fate. Mental disorders are multifactorial and genetics is only one of many factors that influence their development. Although it is believed that genetic results may cause worry or anxiety, it has been shown that if people are given a safe space and informed, their fears disappear.
Don’t be afraid to learn about your genetics, it can only have positive effects, here’s why
Understanding that having knowledge about our genetic predisposition does not mean that we will necessarily develop a mental disorder, we can understand that this information gives us the opportunity to take a preventive approach and take proactive measures to take care of our mental health.
Genetic information is a further support in the process of finding the method that can best help the individual. Ultimately, knowing our genetics allows us to better understand our strengths and weaknesses in terms of mental health. This gives us the opportunity to implement self-care strategies, adopt healthy lifestyles and seek appropriate support when needed.
Imagine a person who is prone to catching a cold, will need to wrap up warmer, and be more hygienic in washing their hands. A person who has fragile knees will decide to do different sports, or walk instead of run. By understanding our genetic risks, we can take steps to minimise them and maintain good mental health in the long term.
Prevention is the best medicine
As we have seen, genetics not only helps us understand our risks, but also allows us to focus on prevention. By knowing our genetic predisposition, we can make lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and seeking emotional support when needed.
These preventive measures can have a significant impact on our mental health and help us prevent the development of mental disorders.
You know what they say, prevention is better than cure, are you willing to make it happen?
