How Genetics and the COVID-19 Pandemic Impact Mental Health

Genetic Counselors and You

The COVID-19 pandemic, racial uprisings, and the resulting economic recession have impacted many people’s mental health. One study suggests that ~4 in 10 adults in the U.S. have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, up from ~1 in 10 adults before the pandemic (https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/the-implications-of-covid-19-for-mental-health-and-substance-use/). How do genetic and environmental factors impact our mental health? What should we do to maintain our mental health, especially during this time? In this episode, we invited Ramona Moldovan PhD, a genetic counselor and clinical psychologist, to share her thoughts in honor of mental health awareness month.

For more information on the topics discussed in this episode, visit https://www.aboutgeneticcounselors.org/ and the following webpages:

• Family Ties: The Impact of Genetics on Your Mental Health