DNA Mind tests for genetic variations associated with changes in key biological areas that affect mental health.
Weaknesses in these areas, together with environmental factors, increase risk for development of disorders related to mental health. The areas of mental health reported in DNA Mind include:
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- Mild cognitive impairment causes a slight, but noticeable decline in cognitive abilities, including memory and thinking skills.
- Individuals with mild cognitive impairment are at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease or another dementia.
- Mood disorders
- Mood disorders are psychological disorders that are characterized by the elevation or lowering of an individual’s mood, to the extent that it can interfere with everyday life for an extended period of time.
- The specific mood disorders reported on include bipolar, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Addictive behaviours
- Addictive behaviour can manifest in several disorders, which are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
- Genetics and addictive areas of association include behavioural disorders such as eating disorders (binge eating), ‘adrenaline seeking’, and risk-taking behaviour.
- Substance use disorders include risk for alcohol, nicotine, cannabis and opioid dependence. This area will also report on risk of psychosis from cannabis use.
