Mental Health Disorder: Preventable or Genetic?
Thankfully mental health issues have become less of a taboo subject and more of a scientific discussion. With 450 million people suffering from mental illness and one in four people being affected by mental illness at some point in their lives, it’s a discussion definitely worth having.
A burning question that has been rising is whether mental health conditions are based on genetics or if they are preventable? While we all may demonstrate the potential for mental health conditions based on our genetic, family or social vulnerabilities, some of us may be predisposed to get mental illnesses under stress or other anxious conditions. You can think of this in the same sense as having bad lungs from either genetics or a vulnerable situation. As long as we are responsible and aware of it, we can do our best to either prevent it or recover from it.
A recent study on identical twins with the same genetic vulnerabilities showed one twin developing a mental health condition while the other does not. Our environment and how we live does matter.
So can it get better? Absolutely.
Does it take work? Of course.
Whether you suffer from a mental illness because of genetics and/or life occurrences, it can get better with proper care and good conditions. If we ignore or neglect these negative conditions, we can make them worse. With everyone combating stress at some point in their life, we need to put the effort and work in to stay mentally healthy during those times or work to heal and recover our mental health afterwards.
Remember, you are not alone.
It’s the human condition and something that we need to be responsible for if we want to be mentally well. If you feel yourself in this state and are not sure what to do, learning some effective mindfulness practices and healthy physical and physiological practices will benefit you. If you are unsure of how to begin this process, reaching out to a holistic professional and gaining some knowledge on the best process for you could have the potential to change your life.
On the other hand, if you have been diagnosed, please do not feel like this is the end. Don’t let the description of mental illness make you feel like it’s a permanent description of you. Focusing on what you can do to make your mind and body feel healthier is an important step in healing. You will need patience, and it will take time, but baby steps and compassion for yourself can go a long way. Focus on the good, know the power is yours and you don’t have to go through any of this alone. Reach out for help from a professional, share yourself with loved ones or people that you trust. Set goals, wishes and look for support when needed.
If you commit to feeling better, then you can accomplish it. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress.