“Why does depression have a genetic factor?”
My mother was diagnosed with depression five years ago, and I realized that, because she has depression, I might be at risk. There are other cases of depression within my family. I haven't experienced any symptoms yet, but I know it's possible. Why does depression have this genetic factor? And how likely can I develop it?
6 Answers
Depression can have a genetic underpinning but it is not inevitable that you will have it. It is also possible to develop serious depression where there is no apparant genetic connection. If you are having symptoms you should see a mental health specialist. Treatment works.
Lowes medical disorders are multi-factorial in origin and/or a combination of environmental stress and one’s genetic composition.
Depression is also a medical condition and not just psychiatric. Like diabetes that can be inherited, depression is the same. It happens because of the genetic predisposition to low levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and or dopamine or combination of 2 or all 3 of them. This is the simplest way that I can explain it. I usually go into more details when I see my patients.
Many psychological issues are genetic. All depends on what type of person you are and social lifestyle and closeness off parents, etc. Astrology has something to do with it also if the parents have it. Yet depression comes in different levels and many can lead a normal life
The following links should provide you good insight into your question:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6065213/
https://www.verywellmind.com/is-depression-genetic-1067317
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6065213/
https://www.verywellmind.com/is-depression-genetic-1067317
There are strong genetic factors in depression, bipolar disease, and schizophrenia not all of which have been completely clarified as yet. There is a lot of ongoing research worldwide to better understand those genetic factors which hopefully may lead to better treatment or cure for some cases.
Kwame Anyane-Yeboa
Kwame Anyane-Yeboa
