Does Mental Illness Run In Families?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), more than one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness, or 57.8 million American adults in 2021. The number of U.S. adolescents and teenagers with mental health disorders is even higher. Based on the same report, almost half of young people (49.5%) between the ages of 13 and 18 had some form of mental health disorder in 2021. 

Many Americans with mental health disorders may notice that a parent, sibling, or other relative shares a mental health disorder with them, be it depression, an anxiety disorder, or a substance abuse issue. 

So is mental illness genetic? We see family members with the same hair color, height, and weight, so does the same apply to mental health disorders?  

In recent years, research has indicated that there is a genetic component to mental health. Studies show that a combination of genetic and environmental influences play a part in the development of mental health disorders.

Is Mental Illness Genetic?

Specific genes can be linked to mental health disorders, which are health conditions that can impact your thoughts, emotions, and ability to cope with life.

Most genetic variants do not directly cause mental disorders. However, certain uncommon gene variants can increase the risk of developing these conditions.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the following disorders are likely to have a genetic component:

• attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• autism
• bipolar disorder
• depression
• schizophrenia

The genes CACNA1C and CACNB2 are found across all five of these disorders, though it’s still unclear exactly how these genetic variations influence disease progression.

Environmental Influences 

Common mental health issues, such as depression, can be influenced by genes, but other factors also often play a part. This includes environmental influences, or specific experiences and conditions in people’s lives. 

These include:

• adverse childhood experiences, such as exposure to abuse, neglect, or extreme stress at an early age
• normalization of substance abuse or mental health issues in the home or community
• poverty
• pollution or other poor living conditions
• weak relationships with family and friends or in the community

Someone with strong, supportive relationships may have some resilience against mental health challenges, whereas social isolation or toxic relationships can exacerbate them.

The Relationship Between Inherited And Acquired Traits

Inherited traits are those that are passed down from parents to offspring through genes. Along with physical appearance, people may inherit predispositions to some mental health disorders.

On the other hand, acquired traits are characteristics that someone develops over time due to environmental influences and personal experiences. These traits can include learned behaviors, skills, knowledge, and habits. 

In many cases, the development of a mental health disorder is a result of inherited and acquired traits working in tandem. However, either factor can also serve as a protective quality or a particular influence. 

For example, a person whose mother has been diagnosed with depression has a higher risk of developing depression than people without this genetic factor, but positive environmental influences, such as a financially stable upbringing and loving relatives, may keep them from developing depression. 

On the other hand, if a person without a genetic link for depression experiences trauma due to hate or discrimination, they may still be at an increased risk of developing depression.

Family History And Risk Assessment

There are no genetic tests to determine if you carry a gene that would make you more likely to inherit a mental health disorder. However, providing your doctor with your family’s mental health history can help determine if you are at an increased risk. 

This includes identifying any diagnosed mental health conditions, the age of onset, treatment histories, and any relevant environmental factors, such as trauma. 

Your doctor can use this information to estimate your likelihood of developing specific mental health issues and tailor preventative or interventional strategies accordingly.

Preventive Measures And Early Intervention

Just because your family members have experienced ADHD, substance use disorders, depression, or another mental health condition with a known genetic link doesn’t mean you necessarily have to inherit these issues. 

You can have a positive impact on your mental health by addressing it proactively. Preventive measures encompass a range of activities and lifestyle choices designed to enhance mental well-being and reduce the risk of developing mental health disorders. 

These often include:

• regular physical exercise
• a balanced diet
• sufficient sleep
• stress-reducing activities like mindfulness meditation or art projects
• strong social connections

Early intervention involves recognizing the early signs of mental health disorders and taking action before the condition progresses. This approach is especially important for people with a genetic predisposition. 

Early signs of mental illness include:

• changes in mood, behavior, or cognition
• increased irritability
• withdrawal from social activities
• difficulties concentrating

Approaches for early intervention may include counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychiatric medications. 

For younger people, school-based mental health programs can be instrumental in early detection and intervention. These programs often include mental health education, peer support groups, and access to mental health professionals.

Support Systems And Other Resources For Families

Families can benefit from participating in support groups, which offer a safe space to share experiences, struggles, and successes with others facing similar situations. 

Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer peer-led support groups and educational programs for families. These groups provide not only emotional solace but also practical advice on coping strategies.

Online resources, such as books and workshops, can also provide valuable insights and practical tips for managing mental health conditions within the family.

Additionally, many communities offer services that support mental health, including crisis intervention teams, hotlines, and community mental health centers. These services can provide immediate assistance in times of crisis as well as ongoing support.

Find Mental Health Treatment Today 

Learn about evidence-based mental health treatment options by calling Ark Behavioral Health today.