Can genetics be linked to depression, neuroticism, and ones well being? This article suggests that there is a very likely chance. The article titled "Depression, neuroticism, and sense of well-being may have genetic links." talks about how studying these traits more closely and in-depth can lead to answers regarding these three traits in relation to genetics. There have been so many genes identified in playing a roll in mental illness that most of these genes are ignored because there is no meaning behind it. The gene is discovered and then what? Nothing happens. After searching genetics and depression on google i came across this webpage. Research on depression has identified genes but further studies show an inconsistency in naming the gene that causes depression.
Research has yet to identify a clear link between a specific gene and a vulnerability to depression in everyone
"Understanding more about genetic contributors to mental illness can help us to understand the disorders themselves better, shining a light on the factors that influence them."
GWAS or genome wide association studies was what was used to look at differences scattered throughout people's genomes trying to spot the ones that could be meaningful. Results from GWAS are a huge step toward untangling this convoluted causal chain. As it becomes possible to study more and more people, it’s also becoming feasible for each GWAS to detect weaker and weaker influences.
These studies are a good step in the right direction in regards to finding genetic links between diseases and disorders.
I think mental disorders are constantly overlooked and many people undergo misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis for mental illnesses and conditions. I definitely agree that more research needs to be done to fully pinpoint which genes are specifically linked to mental illnesses such as depression, or ADHD. I think another reason why it's so hard to clearly identify the genetic variations that cause these chemical imbalances are the other factors such as psychological or social causes have to be taken account of when understanding the development of such cognitive disorders in a person. I hope they find some answers soon, because I definitely want better understand why I'm such a nutjob.
ReplyDeleteI am very passionate about the topic of Depression and Mental Disorders. I do a lot of volunteer work with organizations working in this field. Depression is a gate illness to many other mental illnesses and is a package deal in a lot of cases of illnesses. Depression is a very serious illness that affects thousands of individuals daily, and it is constantly overlooked. I believe we should really sit down and really focus on getting answers on if this is an inherited illness or if genes even have a slight say in if someone will have depression. If we jump at the chance to do research and get answers, we can help those who struggle daily better and work on prevention for those who are at risk. We do have to keep in mind that outside factors also do play a big role as well.
ReplyDeleteThis is an awesome read. Mental disorders such as depression or anxiety are often brushed under the rug, and those who suffer with such disorders are usually branded as the problem. However, it is cool that there could be a genetic component that would bring true validity to the disorders. This would help to remove the stigma of the disorders, and it could help to treat them with medicine or even psychology moving forward.
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