Is Mental Illness Genetic?
However, genes alone are not responsible for causing mental illness.
And no single gene variant could determine with certainty that a person will have a mental illness.
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This calcium flow plays an essential role in neurotransmission.
Disrupted neurotransmission can result in problems often associated with different mental health conditions.
Other factors also play a part.
Environmental factors often interact with genetic predispositions to increase a person’s risk.
Such findings may play an essential role in the future treatment of mental health conditions.
Instead, looking at your family history may offer clues about your possible risk.
But, understanding the risk may help you be more alert to early symptoms.
Recognizing symptoms can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes.
What’s Your Risk of Inheriting a Mental Illness?
Determining your own specific risk is complicated, and estimates vary for different conditions.
There was also a significant risk of comorbidity for the two conditions due to the shared genetic effects.
More research is needed to better understand genetic risks and other factors that might play a role.
The lifetime risk of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia is 1 in 100 (or 1%).
Looking at your family may have some predictive value in determining your possible risk for mental illness.
Protect Your Sleep
Sleep and mental healthhave a complex relationship.
Getting enough sleep can benefit your mental health and may help reduce the severity of your symptoms.
Stay Physically Active
Exercise has well-documented physical health benefits, but it can also improve mental health.
People who exercise regularly report feeling more energetic, happier, and less anxious than those who don’t.
Eat a Healthy Diet
What you eat can affect your mental health.
Eating a healthy diet is one way to help protect mental health.
One way to build a robust support system is to get involved in your community.
Connecting with others with similar interests or experiences can help you feel less alone and more connected.
Manage Your Stress
Stress is a part of life.
However, it can sometimes become overwhelming or chronic.
When stress is constant or severe, it can take a toll on mental and physical health.
There are many ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and positive thinking.
Finding what works for you is importantwhat works for one person may not work for another.
If you drink alcohol, it is essential to do so in moderation.
It’s important to talk to your doctor about your concerns about drinking alcohol while taking medication.
A mental health professional can provide support, guidance, and treatment.
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National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Drinking levels defined.
