Teenagers often face numerous challenges that may lead to mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Mental health difficulties can adversely affect life quality and academic success.
Some researchers suggest that genetics may play an essential role in the susceptibility of teenagers to mental health issues.
Understanding Mental Health in Teens
The teenage years can be tough and stressful as they undergo several changes – academic, social, and physical. The pressure to conform to societal expectations can result in mental health struggles like depression and anxiety.
Depression is a psychological condition typified by feelings of sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness. On the other hand, anxiety involves excessive worry, agitation, and constant fear. Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness that features extreme mood swings between mania and depression.
The emotional and social changes that come with teenhood could make teens feel insecure, lose their sense of identity, and feel overwhelmed.
The struggle to fit in, be validated, and accepted could lead to negative coping mechanisms, including substance abuse. Mental health issues can impact academic performance, increase the rate of absenteeism, and reduce overall life satisfaction, leading to poor life choices and outcomes later in life.
The Role of Genetics in Mental Health
Genetics plays a critical role in developing a range of psychological conditions. Mental health issues are quite common in families that have a history of mental health concerns.
Studies have identified a genetic link to psychiatric disorders and suggest that teens with particular genetic markers face an increased risk of developing mental health issues.
Psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, and BD are all potential genetic disorders caused by specific genes or a combination of genes. For example, scientists have identified the serotonin transporter gene linked to depression.
A mutation in this gene can change the way serotonin is transported in the brain, resulting in depression. Furthermore, studies show that over 50% of BD cases have genetic roots.
The Genetics behind Mental Health in Teens
The correlation between genetics and mental health issues in teenagers is a complex subject that is still under research and exploration.
As previously mentioned, specific genes have been identified to contribute to the likelihood of developing psychological conditions. Some of these genes include:.
1. FKBP5
The FKBP5 gene regulates how stress hormones like cortisol bind and react with receptors. Situations like childhood trauma are linked to some genetic risk alleles for mental health disorders.
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Researchers have associated the FKBP5 gene with increased risks of developing PTSD, depression, and other disorders.
2. SLC6A4
Angie Rupp, a psychologist and associate professor of psychology at Southern Illinois University, revealed that the SLC6A4 gene helps in producing serotonin transporters.
Serotonin is a ‘happy hormone’ that aids in balancing and stabilizing mood. When serotonin transporters reuptake serotonin, it paves the way for more production.
When one has the short version of SLC6A4 or two short versions of this gene, they have difficulty producing enough serotonin in the brain, leading to symptoms of anxiety and depression.
3. MAOA
The MAOA gene regulates the monoamine oxidase A enzyme, responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like Dopamine. Dopamine is a hormone that plays a critical role in positive mood and pleasure.
Mutations in the MAOA gene can lead to a deficiency of MAOA, causing Dopamine to accumulate in the brain. It linked to aggressiveness and antisocial behavior in boys.
4. BDNF
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein that helps in the growth, differentiation, and survival of brain neurons. Mutations in the BDNF gene have been linked to prolonged depression, suicidal attempts, and bipolar 1 disorder.
5. COMT
Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) is an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the prefrontal cortex. Dopamine is essential for executive functioning, attention, and working memory.
Mutations of the COMT gene produce weaker forms of COMT enzymes and impact dopamine break down capabilities leading to anxiety and ADHD.
Conclusion
Teens are prone to mental health challenges that could negatively impact their entire being. While environmental factors play a role in developed mental health issues, genetics also account for many psychological concerns.
Understanding the correlation between genetics and mental health in teens could help healthcare professionals design better interventions and treatments for teenagers.
Preventative measures involving counseling, genetic testing, and screening could help identify teens at risk of developing mental health issues in the future.
Furthermore, treatment plans and tailored therapies could also be developed, reducing the likelihood and effects of mental health concerns in teenagers.
