There has been a change in the way that the causes of mental illness are being discussed these days. Now, for the most part, that shift has been positive. For example, there used to be a belief that mental illness was the individual’s fault and responsibility. Or that a family history of mental illness meant it was destiny for family members to suffer without a cure. Also, there was talk of how mental illness, especially substance use disorder (SUD), resulted from a weakness or lack of willpower. We now know these ideas are a total fallacy. Now, we are aware that mental illness can arise from many places. Only one of those possibilities is a history of family mental illness.
What Are Some Risk Factors for Developing Mental Health Issues?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Common risk factors can contribute to both SUDs and other mental disorders.” NIMH also states that “Both SUDs and other mental disorders can run in families, meaning certain genes may be a risk factor.” Also, “Environmental factors, such as stress or trauma, can cause genetic changes that are passed down through generations and may contribute to the development of a mental disorder or a substance use disorder.” A few other factors that are not mentioned here are socioeconomic issues, racial inequities, and major stressful events (such as the loss of a loved one).
Also, what NIMH fails to mention here is that many times it is a combination of these factors that ultimately can contribute to issues of mental illness and/or addiction. Just because some of these risk factors exist does not mean someone will develop an addiction or any mental health disorder.
Should I Be Concerned About a History of Family Mental Illness?
People often become concerned when they learn that mental illness runs in their family. While, yes, this fear is understandable, it is also unnecessary.
Now, that does not mean that being aware of mental illness in the family is important. It very much is. However, what it means is that concern about something that hasn’t happened yet just brings unnecessary stress into family life.
Some people strongly believe that mental illness in their family history will negatively affect their mental well-being. This simply is not true – or rather, it is not guaranteed. Also, there are a variety of other factors that may contribute to issues of mental health. Putting it all on family history would be a fallacy. However, just like other medical histories, it can be useful to know whether mental illness runs in the family. This can be especially helpful when some mental health issues start to manifest.
Understanding That Knowing About Family Mental Illness Is a Positive
According to the peer-reviewed journal, Translational Psychiatry, “Family-level factors may also influence the relationship between cognitive ability and risk of psychiatric disorder. Genetic factors could underpin both the impaired cognitive ability and the increased risk of mental disorders.” The journal follows up by reporting that “There is a lack of information on the impact of family-level psychiatric history on cognitive ability.” Awareness is important, but “concern” causes undue stress.
To be sure, having a conversation with primary care doctors and other professionals about family mental illness can be helpful. This is because if any mental health and/or addiction issues were to arise, then this could be factored into a diagnosis. Yet, family mental illness should only be one of the factors considered. It is important to be honest about all other issues such as biological issues and social issues that the family may be dealing with.
Family Mental Illness and Eliminating Blame
Just as there is no reason to blame an individual for their mental illness and/or addiction, there is also no reason to solely blame a family history for mental illness. Blame does not do anyone any good, anyway.
It is more helpful to take the energy spent on the blame game and put it toward action in recovery. Remember, mental illness is a disease, just like any other biological disease. As with any other disease, the origin can rarely be determined with certainty.
Helping the Entire Family Heal at Clearview
When it comes to mental illness, it is important to remember not to dwell in the past or worry about the future. The key is to stay in the moment and stay focused on day-to-day recovery.
Here at Clearview, we understand that discovering family mental illness can be concerning. We also know that nothing happens until it actually happens. Also, if or when something happens, we know that we will always be available to help. No one should have to deal with mental health issues or addictions alone.
Many parents have concerns about mental illness and/or addiction running in their family and how it may affect their daughter. This is only natural. However, it is also important to remember that there are many different theories, concepts, and ideas about where mental illness may originate. There are social, economic, and biological factors that can also play a role in creating mental illness. Sure, there are some familial associations as well. Generally, mental illness arises out of a combination of factors. For more information about mental health, how it may run in the family, and how mental illness and/or addiction can best be treated, please reach out to Clearview Horizon today at 866-584-4788.
