Clinical depression: the fault not in our stars?

Abstract

Objective:

To consider how a mental health professional might respond to a newly diagnosed depressed patient who inquires into its potential genetic origins and whether they might pass depression on to their children.

Methods:

Data are provided on risk and pursuit of genetic pathways.

Results:

As most studies have focussed on DSM-defined major depression – and which is not an entity – no definitive data are available, while there are some few studies indicating a greater genetic risk in those with melancholic than those with non-melancholic depression.

Conclusion:

We will not know the genetic contribution to clinical depression unless its key sub-types are evaluated as separate conditions. Findings may assist a clinician’s response to an inquiring patient.