If mental health concerns run in your family - here is what you need know

If mental health concerns run in your family- here is what you need to know.

One of the most reliable predictors of mental health issues surfacing during times of stress is family history.  Sensitivity to stress, a predisposition for anxiety or depression is conditions often present in immediate or extended family members.  Knowing this, serves as a reminder, wellbeing and mental health will warrant more attention.

To understand the mechanism by which the central nervous system is affected helps one begin to recognize and adopt the strategies to reduce, delay or even stop the onset of the undesirable symptoms of these conditions.

The brain functions as a biochemical and electrochemical operating system.  A harmonious balance of hormones and neurotransmitters enables the system to operate optimally even under adverse conditions. The critical hormones include cortisol, norepinephrine.  Additionally the neurotransmitters, serotonin, dopamine, GABA, acetylcholine, glutamate and few others such as epinephrine, melatonin CRH, and androgens function in supportive roles as well.   

Neurotransmitters operate in concert with each other, some having an excitatory influence and others an inhibitory effect.   An imbalance in one or more neurotransmitters or hormones generates shifts in mood, pain thresholds and energy levels.  A host of other symptoms can follow each associated with particular deficiencies or excesses of bio-chemicals and transmitters.

A number of factors influence not only the availability of these neurochemicals, but the relative balance as well.  Understanding these factors enables an individual to judiciously incorporate specific strategies and interventions, allaying the onset of troublesome symptoms. Our identity comprises physical, mental, social, emotional, behavioural, moral and spiritual domains each representing a potential resource.  How these domains contribute to wellbeing and the timely implementation of thoughtful practices is vital to stress management, the inevitable precursor to most mental health disorders.

It begins with mindful self-awareness, an essential aspect of emotional intelligence.  Feelings can be likened to a window which provides a view into each and every domain of our identity. Awareness of and a sensitivity to what we are experiencing in particular moments of time permits us to discern our thoughts, feelings and perceptions, thus increasing the likelihood of an appropriate and timely response.

It is in the mental domain, where thoughts are processed and either incorporated or rejected.  Recognizing and correcting distortions in thinking, or identifying patterns of thought that may not be serving us well, allow us to sidestep the fallout of negative, unrealistic, simplistic thought processes.  Re-scripting less functional thoughts to reflect a more positive, accurate and realistic, or more kind way of interpreting situations shuts off the adrenal cortex and the deleterious effects of too much cortisol.

In the physical domain there is much that can be done. Exercise releases feel good endorphins, balanced nutrition provides needed nutrients and amino acids for reconstructing neurotransmitters, adequate sleep rejuvenates the body, meditation and deep breathing induce a calming effect upon the central nervous system and contribute to a sense of wellbeing.

The moral domain speaks to attributes of character.  Respect, empathy, tolerance, love, long suffering, patience are signature strengths, when acquired will determine how well one navigates the challenges, the adversities and trials inevitably encountered.

Socially it is nurturing close relations, recognizing the powerful supportive blessing of a good friend, family member, counsellor, minister, confidant, mentor. Giving voice to thoughts and feelings is therapeutic in and of itself, plus the additional benefit derived from good counsel and a compassionate listening ear.

Spiritually through the exercise of faith and achieved through study, pondering, prayer and attunement to spiritual impressions one is able to let go of emotional burdens and find a measure of hope, peace and comfort when burdens are left at the altar of a greater power.