Are Depression and Anxiety Genetic?
How genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors can contribute to anxiety and depression
Nurture or nature? This is a common question many people ask themselves when trying to get to the roots of their anxiety and depression. In reality, however, it may not be one or the other.
If you have a family member who has clinical depression or general anxiety, it is likely that you may have or develop it in your life but there’s no guarantee!
Let’s look at some studies and specifically their results:
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In a study with identical twins (who have the same set of genes), they found that they were more likely to both have major depression compared to fraternal twins, making heritability about 40-50%. According to a Stanford Medicine article titled, “Major Depression and Genetics”, “this could mean that in most cases of depression, around 50% of the cause is genetic, and around 50% is unrelated to genes (psychological or physical factors)."
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However, no single gene has been found to cause anxiety and depression. Even studies that have isolated certain genes and found interesting conclusions ended with insignificant results.
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A Swedish study found that women had a 42% chance of hereditary depression, while men had a 29% chance.
So, which is it?
Similar to other medical conditions, anxiety and depression are not only caused by genetic factors. Other aspects such as environment, personal experiences and general lifestyle can also contribute to their mental health. Often, it can be a mix of a few factors that contribute to it. Similar to what the Stanford medicine article stated, while anxiety and depression can be linked to certain genetic factors, they are not limited to only genetic characteristics. Situational depression is a great example of this.
Signs of Anxiety and Depression
What are the signs of anxiety and depression? While most people may experience some form of anxiety or depressive symptoms at some point in their lives, symptoms and severity may vary for everyone.
Some symptoms of anxiety include:
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Feelings of doom or danger,
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Feelings of panic and fear.
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Sleep problems
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Inability to concentrate
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Hyperventilation
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Tense muscles
Some signs of depression are:
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Feelings of hopelessness and sadness
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Irritability
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Sleeping problems
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Loss of interest in normal activities such as hobbies.
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Weight gain or loss
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Tiredness and general fatigue
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Anxiety
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Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
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Trouble concentrating
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Recurrent or frequent suicidal thoughts
Some factors overlap in anxiety and depression, so it is important that you speak to a doctor or therapist if you are not sure of exactly what you may be experiencing.
If depression and anxiety do run in your family, you should let your doctor know or seek guidance if you are noticing some of the symptoms listed above at certain parts of your life.
While there is no way to completely prevent depression and anxiety it helps to be aware that you might be prone to it and reach out if you feel that it is getting worse and affecting various parts of your life. Your therapist can help you understand your triggers and equip you with the right strategies, interventions, and insight to manage your symptoms.
It’s important to remember that many people lead healthy, functional, and fulfilling lives despite experiencing some form of anxiety or depression- so don’t be too worried if you find that it does in fact run in your family.