Genetics

I often wonder about the possibility of my children having mental health issues. I know that my father dealt with depression and as a result died by suicide. I have BP2, GAD, and OCD which I can only assume could possibly be passed on. My children are 14 and 10. My 10 presents many symptoms of OCD and GAD or possibly Social Anxiety, but I don't know if I am being paranoid; is there a "too early" when finding out such things?

Feelings are easily imprinted on the developing mind. I do not think genetics play much a role in this.

No, 10 years old is definitely not too early to detect mental health issues.

Hello Queen of Hearts: The Skeezyks enjoys reading about current research regarding brain function. From what I've read, I would have to say the jury is still out, so to speak, with regard to the part genetics play in mental illness. What I would suggest based on my own experience, however, is that it's never too early to take a close look at potential mental health concerns. Of course, one has to be cautious. You don't want to get your kids involved in potentially unnecessary or maybe even harmful mental health services. Unfortunately those kinds of things are out there. But on the other hand, if one or both of your kids do have some genuine mental health concerns, overlooking them won't help. At least this is my perspective...

I knew something was wrong at a very young age. I can remember the first day of school and the realization I was unlike the other children - I recognized cheerfulness, happiness, and confidence in them whereas my world was full of anxiety, discomfort, and sadness.