There are many reasons why you might develop depression.
A sudden loss—such as a death in the family or your home being foreclosed—can certainly cause depression. Another reason may be feeling alone and isolated from other people. This can occur when you move to a new city and are struggling to make connections.
However, did you ever consider that genetic pre-disposition could also play a role in whether or not you develop depression?
New research is exploring this issue.
The Chance of Having Depression
Studies already show that there is a link between genetics and depression. These studies examined both whole families as well as twins.
What scientists found out is that if a person had a parent or sibling that had depression—in particular, major depressive disorder—then they were much more likely to be pre-disposed to experiencing depression as well. In fact, the likelihood was 2-3 time greater than someone who did not have any family connection to depression at all.
Exposing New Links Between Genetic Pre-Disposition and Depression
After these initial findings, scientists have been exploring in more detail the potential for genetic pre-disposition leading to depression.
One study found two previously unknown genetic markers. Researchers examined over 10,000 women who were Chinese. Half of the participants had depression, and of that half, 85 % had melancholia. This is a condition where you feel down and have no joy in life.
The two new genetic markers were found in this subgroup and were confirmed by examining another 6,000 people.
The Benefits of Genetic Screening and Research
Knowing what to look for when screening for potential genetic links is very beneficial. It means that if you do have one of these particular genes you can be more attentive to the onset of depression.
For example, some things you can do are:
- Structuring your life so that you have positive coping mechanisms if you have depression (exercise, diet, social networks, etc.).
- Getting prescriptions for medications that will be most effective
Another important lesson from this research is that depression is treatable. It does not have to remain a mystery why you feel sad all the time and can’t “snap out of it.” Nor do you have to wonder why you have depression or beat yourself up for having it.
Quite simply, you cannot control your genes. If you have a genetic pre-disposition to developing depression, you can’t just wave a magic wand and change your genes. However, by knowing your genotype, you and your medical provider can make the best decisions regarding your care.
Having the Genes Doesn’t Automatically Sentence You to Get Depression
Do you know that old saying, “There are no guarantees in life?” Knowing more about how your genes influence depression is a powerful tool for addressing the problem. Keep in mind, though, that these genes are not the “scarlet letter” dooming you to depression.
So, if you worry that you have the genes pre-disposing you to depression, take heart. Just because you have the genetic markers doesn’t mean that you will even develop depression in your lifetime. It simply means that you are more pre-disposed, or more vulnerable, to developing it.
Scientific research in the field helps us better understand how the condition develops in people and how to better treat it. So take a moment and take a deep breath. Everything’s going to be OK!
And remember, these genes do not cause depression. What causes depression are the events of your life. How you deal with them is very much in your control.
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Clearly, having a genetic pre-disposition doesn’t mean you’re destined to have depression.
In the end, even if you can’t guarantee anything, you do have the power to reduce the chance of developing depression through both lifestyle and professional depression treatment. And by knowing your genetic history, as well as making positive life choices, you can make better decisions about your overall mental health.
