Genetic Testing and the Need for Mental Health Support

Genetic testing, which can tell people if they have the genes for certain diseases, is still a fairly unknown area of science. Taking the tests and dealing with the results can affect the mental health of the patient. There is some evidence to suggest that a mental health support network should be in place not only after the results are given, but before genetic testing even takes place.

There are some people who find genetic testing to be empowering. Knowing they don't carry the propensity for an inherited disease frees them from worry and raises their self esteem.

Even those who test positive and carry genes for such hereditary diseases as Alzheimer's or Huntington's can experience a sense of empowerment from the results. They can feel relieve to finally know and feel more capable of making informed lifestyle choices.

That's not to say that these seemingly positive reactions aren't in need of a psychological support system. Such a fail-safe can help guide them through any feelings they might have associated with the results. It also provides a sounding board for decisions that might seem delightfully daring, but in reality may be dangerous.

Even more common among positive genetic testers are negative reactions. These might include grief, anger, anxiety, depression and shame.

Even those who test negative may have adverse mental health reactions, such as guilt for not having the mutation. If another family member is found to have the "bad" gene, this guilt is even more likely. Lower self esteem may also be associated with a negative test result. The thinking being that the person is somehow less important or interesting without the possibility of having the disease.

It is even more imperative that those with negative reactions to their genetic test results have a mental health support system in place, as these emotions are at higher risk for harmful thinking and actions.

Since there is not a concrete way of knowing how someone will react to their genetic test results, a mental health support system should be set up in advance of any testing. First and foremost, this system should have psychological support from mental health professionals. Included in this network should be a combination of family, friends, councilors and experts. Patients should be put in contact with support groups, so they know that they are not alone.