22 Jul Is Major Depressive Disorder Genetic?
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a very common mental illness characterized by ongoing and persistent feeling of sadness and hopelessness that typically occurs for six months or more. Though all the causes for major depressive disorder are unknown, research has uncovered that genetics most likely play a key role in its development.
It has been estimated that around 10 to 15 percent of the general population will experience major depression in their lifetime.
To be or not to be hereditary
Studies on major depressive disorder conducted on twins and a family indicated that genetic factors do significantly increase
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likelihood of developing the disorder. The results from the twin study suggest a heritability or 40 to 50 percent. The study done on the family indicated that there is a twofold to threefold increase in risk of developing MDD over a lifetime among first-degree relatives to an individual with MDD.
Major depressive disorder is the leading cause of disability for individuals of 15 to 44 years of age and is expected to be the second cause of disability worldwide for individuals of all ages by the year 2020.
Viewpoint Center helps teens with major depressive disorder
ViewPoint Center is a teen mental health hospital and crisis center for boys and girls, ages 12 to 17 years old. If you think your child is struggling with a behavioral or mental disorder, such as Major Depressive Disorder, it might be time to call ViewPoint. This therapeutic assessment facility can help.
Call today, at 801-825-5222, for more information about our comprehensive therapeutic assessment facility and how we can help your struggling teen.