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When I first learned that I could take a DNA test to analyze the link between my genetics and mental health, I immediately had questions. Would the test identify my family history? How accurate would the results be? As someone who’s super passionate about mental health and wellness, I was totally curious and had to learn more. (Psst: it’s 25% off HERE with the code “College25”!)
Despite years of stigma surrounding mental health, we know that it plays an essential role in our wellness and deserves our attention. We also know from decades of research that our mental health is a combination of “nature” and “nurture,” AKA a blend of our biological predispositions and our environment. Personally, I have a pretty good idea of what lifestyle factors influence my mental health (think: crowded subway cars during NYC rush hour), but rarely have I gone into the past to inquire about my genetics.
Enter the Genomind® Mental Health Map™, a breakthrough genetic test designed to help you understand your predispositions and take action for your mental well-being. Every test includes an analysis of 38 genetic mechanisms that impact your mental health, 7 interactive reports, recommendations and resources based on your results, and a 30-minute consult with a Genomind® BrainTrust™ Advisor. In other words, it’s a pretty big deal. To complete the test, you have a kit mailed to you, complete a simple cheek swab, then send it back for analysis.
When I received my Genomind® kit in the mail, I was impressed at the sleek packaging, clear labeling, and easy-to-follow instructions. It also includes a booklet with a breakdown of 7 Core Genetic Mental Health Capabilities™ that help inform how we interact with our environment and the lifestyle choices we make. They include: Sleep, Mood, Social Behavior, Focus & Memory, Stress & Anxiety, Habits & Substance Use, and Eating Behavior.
Even before completing the DNA test, you can learn more about each topic area and how it relates to your habits — for instance, how genetics may influence your likelihood of being an early bird or a night owl. Cool, right? After sending in my test, I’ll get more insight about how each of these areas impact my mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
Historically, we’ve seen a lot of stigma surrounding mental health, from opening up to friends and family about your experiences to seeking therapy. Luckily, this is changing for the better, and nowadays, caring for our mental health can truly be an act of empowerment. It’s worth noting that while it can feel intimidating to explore your personal story this way, the Genomind® kit isn’t about diagnosing or predicting what you’ll face. Rather, it’s about empowering you to learn about yourself. DNA tests like this can serve as a great starting point if you’re interested in learning about your personal “blueprint” and how it impacts your lifestyle today.
Now that I’ve completed my test and mailed in my sample, I feel empowered. It’s exciting to think that my results may help inform my lifestyle and self-care routines in the future, from getting better sleep (which I can imagine we all desperately need) to understanding our daily habits (*hides coffee cup*).
To be honest, I have no idea what the results will show or what I’ll learn after my 1:1 consult, but it definitely feels awesome to take a big step in learning about my mental health in a new way. If you’re interested in trying the kit for yourself, Genomind® is offering 25% off orders right now. Use the code “College25” to learn more about the process, and start feeling empowered about your mental health and wellness.
The information in this content may be useful but does not constitute medical advice. This content is not used to make diagnoses, inform medical decisions, prescribe medicine, or provide treatment, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with qualified health professionals who are familiar with your individual medical needs. For questions, consult your doctor.