The genetics of depressionThe genetics of depression
All In The Mind
Depression is the most disabling chronic condition worldwide and research is now underway to precisely identify the genes associated with it—the results may lead to dramatically improved and personalised treatment.
28:52•25 Jun 2017
Genes, Brain And Mood: Understanding The Genetics Of Depression
Episode Overview
- Depression appears to be roughly one-third genetic and two-thirds environmental, with strong evidence that it can run in families.
- Untreated depression is associated with structural changes in key brain areas, reinforcing that it is a medical illness rather than a personal weakness.
- Genome-wide association scans and large twin studies aim to identify many small-effect genes that contribute to depression risk.
- Understanding individual biological pathways, such as body clock or immune-related factors, may lead to more precise and personalised treatments.
- Practical strategies like regular exercise, brief meditation and a written support list can complement medication and help some people manage depressive episodes.
“"Treat it like a broken leg... All of these things you're experiencing in your brain are very similar to a broken leg."”
How do people find strength in their journey through depression? This episode of All In The Mind focuses on how genes, life events and treatment all intersect, using both science and very human stories. You’ll hear about Anna, who became clinically depressed at university after moving away from her tight-knit community.
Taking part in the Australian genetics of depression study helped her notice a family pattern: a dad with depression as a teenager, a grandma with postnatal depression, and her own episode linked with intense loneliness. Her practical approach is memorable: daily exercise, short meditation and a written list of people to call when she couldn’t remember who cared about her.
As she recalls, her mum’s advice to "treat it like a broken leg" shifted depression from a personal failing to an illness that can heal. Jodie, a 45-year-old mother of two, describes depression and anxiety following blood cancer as "a black cloud or a weight" that affected everything from getting out of bed to caring for her family. Medication now helps her stay stable, and she hopes genetics research might one day prevent others reaching the point of breakdown.
On the scientific side, Professors Ian Hickey and Nick Martin explain that depression is about one-third genetic and two-thirds environmental, and that untreated depression can physically change brain structures such as the hippocampus. They break down genome-wide association scans, twin studies, and why huge sample sizes are crucial to finding hundreds of small-effect genes rather than a single "big" one. Their big ambition?
To match treatments to each person’s biology, whether that involves circadian rhythms, immune function or classic "prozac-like" medication, so people get the right help first time rather than enduring years of trial and error. If depression affects you or your family, could learning more about your biological and environmental risks be a step towards feeling more understood and better treated?
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