Greater Houston Counseling Services’ Post

Awareness, Diagnosis, Management of Rare Diseases... Although many of healthcare professionals, patient organizations, governments involved in raising awareness on rare diseases, it seems there's still a long way to go. There are insufficient information on many of rare diseases due to their low or extremely low prevalence. This makes it difficult to be even recognized sometimes. Hence, it is important to raise awareness on rare disease in the society. It is said that you can see as much as you know. With the collective effort from all spheres could eventually help patients suffering from rare diseases. 'Rare diseases not only affect the person diagnosed – they also impact families, friends, care takers and society as a whole.' - EURORDIS 'Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited disorders that affect your connective tissues — primarily your skin, joints and blood vessel walls. Connective tissue is a complex mixture of proteins and other substances that provide strength and elasticity to the underlying structures in your body.' - Mayo Clinic

How much do our genes make up who we are and how we function? 🤔 While there is a long history of eating disorders dating back centuries, the genetic link to eating disorders is one of the more recent discoveries brought to light. The extent to which our genetics affect the likelihood of developing an eating disorder and what we can do about it is complex – and there is hope. "The genetics of major depressive disorder and eating disorders are similarly complex. Genetics influence the likelihood of developing depression but there is not a single 'depression gene.' However, there are often external factors like life stressors or physical stresses that can precipitate the onset of depression. For eating disorders, individuals also often have exposure to life stressors, dieting, or other mental illnesses that can precipitate the onset of the disease." — Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar Read more on the link between genetics and eating disorders here: https://bit.ly/3x2Q8ie

While the genetic predisposition to depression is well-established and extensively documented in scientific literature, recent research indicates that lifestyle factors also play a significant role in both the onset and management of depression. For example, a 2023 paper in Nature informs that the genetic dissection of major depressive disorder ranks as one of the success stories of psychiatric genetics. Genome-wide association studies have identified 178 genetic risk loci and proposed more than 200 candidate genes. On the other hand, a 2023 meta-analysis in Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences highlights that accumulating evidence has suggested the critical role of lifestyle factors in depressive disorder. A sedentary lifestyle and increased screen time confer the risk of depression. Insomnia and disturbed sleep-wake rhythm are also involved in the pathogenesis of depression. Therefore, based on my years of literature reviews, it would be more accurate to view depression as a condition influenced by both genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices rather than solely determined by genetics. As a personal and professional endeavor, I have been researching depression within a lifestyle context for over three decades. One of the key symptoms of depression is a lack of energy. Last year, I wrote a story titled Seven Reasons You Feel No Energy, which informed my readers who suffer from lethargy and depressive feelings, which happened to me in my younger years. One of the reasons I mentioned was that “You are not getting enough sunlight or bright light during the day.” However, more interestingly, I recently wrote a critical story. To my surprise, in two days, it went almost viral on two different platforms, shared by hundreds of discerning readers on social media. The story was based on two recent papers published in Nature. I explained the findings from multiple other studies I had reviewed before. Even more intriguingly, I received many email messages from subscribers of my content, especially scientists and mental health clinicians, expressing that this story was an eye-opener for them. The impact of night light, previously obscure to them, was articulated clearly and backed by recent scientific evidence. Yet, several readers' intriguing questions inspired this follow-up story. They raised concerns about the genetic implications of depression and whether there was any scientific evidence linking sunlight exposure to these genetic factors. A recent large-size study in Nature informs that moderate time spent in outdoor light may contribute to a decreased depression risk, even among people with a higher genetic risk of depression.  You can read the article for free via my friend link on Medium. https://lnkd.in/gxs7AiP3

Do you have a family history of anxiety disorders? Research suggests that anxiety disorders can be influenced by family genetics, with certain genetic variations predisposing individuals to heightened sensitivity to stress and anxiety triggers. But, it's not just genetics that play a role. Environmental factors such as childhood experiences, life stressors, and coping mechanisms also contribute to the development of anxiety symptoms. By understanding the genetic underpinnings of anxiety within families, we can identify at-risk individuals earlier and tailor interventions that combine genetic insights with therapeutic approaches to effectively manage anxiety. Let's work together to better understand the complex interplay between inherited vulnerabilities and environmental factors that contribute to anxiety disorders. 💙 💛 🧡

🍄 Are mushrooms the new superheroes for treating psychiatric disorders? 🦸♂️ Scientists are buzzing about the therapeutic potential of natural compounds over synthetic ones. > A study found that psilocybin-containing mushroom extract had more potent and prolonged effects on proteins that promote brain plasticity than chemically-synthesised psilocybin. > The naturally-derived psilocybin increased the proteins GAP43, PSD95, synaptophysin and SV2A in all four brain regions – twice as many as were impacted by the synthetic version. 💡 LGC Standards supplies a large range of chemicals for research into #MentalDisorders and #neurodegenerative diseases - including controlled substances, hallucinogens, and psychedelics. Explore now: https://okt.to/wlce9f #ResearchChemicals #ScienceForASaferWorld

Did you know? Genetics plays a significant role in bipolar disorder, contributing to the complexity and uniqueness of each individual's experience. Understanding this connection can enhance treatment approaches and support. Book your informative session. https://bit.ly/3w9oOyj #BipolarAwareness #GeneticsMatters #MentalHealthInsights #InformedCare #BehavioralHealth

Did you know that specific genetic factors can increase susceptibility to conditions like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder? Understanding these genetic risk factors is crucial for individuals and families alike. Let's illuminate the path towards a deeper understanding of genetic risk factors and pave the way for healthier futures together! #GeneticRiskFactors #MentalHealthAwareness #EmpowermentThroughKnowledge #MosaicBiodata #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth

In this month's Research Roundup, we highlight four AFSP-funded studies about: 🏥 Pharmacological and somatic treatments work for adults at risk for suicide 📝 Some characteristics in school-aged children contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors 🚫 Different types of firearms, and the policies around them, may affect suicide rates 🧬 Genetic molecules may indicate risk for mood disorders and suicide See what we examined and learn more #Science2StopSuicide:

Excellent read on why it is essential to understand the biological drivers of eating disorders. When we do not integrate neurobiological factors, we can cause harm and grossly misunderstand their development and maintainance. Minimizing biology also means less effective treatments.

🍄 Are mushrooms the new superheroes for treating psychiatric disorders? 🦸♂️ Scientists are buzzing about the therapeutic potential of natural compounds over synthetic ones. > A study found that psilocybin-containing mushroom extract had more potent and prolonged effects on proteins that promote brain plasticity than chemically-synthesised psilocybin. > The naturally-derived psilocybin increased the proteins GAP43, PSD95, synaptophysin and SV2A in all four brain regions – twice as many as were impacted by the synthetic version. 💡 LGC Standards supplies a large range of chemicals for research into #MentalDisorders and #neurodegenerative diseases - including controlled substances, hallucinogens, and psychedelics. Explore now: https://okt.to/d4HnDs #ResearchChemicals #ScienceForASaferWorld