Are Mental Illnesses Genetic? Causes, Risks & Research Insights

Author: VitalWell Hub Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Health Research Editorial Board
Last Updated: April 2026

Introduction

Mental health is no longer a peripheral topic in global healthcare—it is central. Across continents, cultures, and age groups, mental illnesses are shaping how individuals live, work, and relate to others. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hundreds of millions of people worldwide live with mental health conditions, making them one of the leading causes of disability globally.

With this growing awareness comes a fundamental question that patients, families, and clinicians repeatedly ask: Are mental illnesses genetic?

It’s a compelling question, especially when patterns appear within families. You may have noticed that depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder seem to “run in families.” This observation has driven decades of scientific research—and while the answer is not simple, it is increasingly clear.

Mental illnesses are not caused by a single factor. Instead, they arise from a complex interplay between:

• Genetic predisposition (your inherited biological makeup)
• Environmental exposures (stress, trauma, upbringing)
• Psychological and social influences
• Neurobiological processes within the brain

This means that while genetics can increase your risk, they rarely determine your destiny.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore:

• The role of genetics in mental illness
• How inherited risk actually works
• The science behind nature vs. nurture
• Real-life examples of genetic vulnerability
• Preventive strategies and early interventions

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Understanding Mental Illness: A Medical Perspective

Before exploring genetics, it is essential to define what mental illness actually is—from a clinical standpoint.

Mental illnesses are not simply “mood swings” or temporary emotional reactions. They are medically recognized conditions that affect:

• Thinking patterns
• Emotional regulation
• Behavioral responses
• Social functioning

These conditions are classified using standardized diagnostic frameworks such as the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), developed by the American Psychiatric Association.

Common mental health disorders include:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Each of these conditions has distinct biological and psychological mechanisms, but many share overlapping genetic influences.

For a deeper understanding of how mental health affects daily life, you can explore our internal guide:
How Fitness Improves Mental Health

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What Does “Genetic” Really Mean in Mental Health?

When people hear the term “genetic,” they often assume something is fixed or inevitable. In reality, genetics in mental health operates very differently.

A genetic influence does not mean:

• You will definitely develop a disorder
• The condition is predetermined
• No prevention is possible

Instead, it means:

• You may have a higher susceptibility
• Your brain may respond differently to stress
• You may be more sensitive to environmental triggers

Think of genetics as a loaded possibility, not a guaranteed outcome.

For example:

Two individuals may both carry genetic risk for depression. One grows up in a stable, supportive environment and develops strong coping mechanisms. The other experiences chronic stress and trauma. The second individual is far more likely to develop clinical depression—not because of genes alone, but because of how genes interact with life experiences.

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The Science of DNA and Brain Function

Every cell in your body contains DNA—your genetic blueprint. Within this DNA are thousands of genes responsible for regulating:

• Brain development
• Neurotransmitter activity (e.g., serotonin, dopamine)
• Stress hormone responses (cortisol regulation)
• Emotional processing

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), mental illnesses are typically influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect.

This is known as polygenic inheritance.

Unlike single-gene disorders (such as cystic fibrosis), mental health conditions involve complex genetic networks interacting with environmental factors.

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Real-Life Case Example: Family Patterns in Mental Illness

Consider a real-world scenario often observed in clinical practice:

A young adult presents with symptoms of bipolar disorder. During assessment, it is revealed that:

• Their parent has a history of mood instability
• An uncle was diagnosed with bipolar disorder
• A grandparent experienced recurrent depression

This pattern suggests a familial genetic link.

However, not every family member develops the condition. Some remain unaffected despite sharing similar genetic backgrounds.

Why?

Because environmental exposure, lifestyle, stress levels, and psychological resilience all influence whether genetic risk becomes a clinical disorder.

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Common Mental Illnesses with Genetic Components

Scientific research consistently shows that certain mental illnesses have stronger genetic associations than others.

1. Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions globally. Studies indicate that individuals with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with depression are up to 2–3 times more likely to develop the condition.

External resource: NIH – Genetics of Depression

2. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder has one of the strongest genetic links in psychiatry. Twin studies show high concordance rates, meaning identical twins are significantly more likely to both develop the condition.

3. Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia demonstrates a strong hereditary component. According to research, having a close relative with schizophrenia significantly increases risk compared to the general population.

4. Anxiety Disorders

Genetic influences may affect how the brain processes fear and stress, increasing vulnerability to anxiety-related conditions.

5. ADHD

ADHD shows strong heritability, particularly involving genes that regulate dopamine and executive function.

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Nature vs. Nurture: A False Dichotomy

The debate between nature and nurture has evolved significantly over time. Modern science no longer treats them as opposing forces but as interdependent systems.

Current understanding emphasizes:

• Genes influence sensitivity to environmental factors
• Environment shapes gene expression
• Brain development reflects both influences simultaneously

This interaction is best explained through epigenetics, which we will explore in detail in Part 2.

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Video Explanation: Genetics and Mental Health

This video provides a visual explanation of how genetics influence mental health and how environmental factors interact with biological processes.

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Key Takeaways (Part 1)

• Mental illnesses are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors
• No single “mental illness gene” exists
• Genetics increase susceptibility, not certainty
• Family history is an important—but not definitive—risk indicator
• Early awareness allows better prevention and intervention

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Continue Reading: Part 2 will explore epigenetics, heritability statistics, and cutting-edge genetic research in mental health.

Epigenetics: How Environment Shapes Genetic Expression

One of the most important breakthroughs in modern mental health science is the field of epigenetics. While genetics explains what you inherit, epigenetics explains how those genes are turned on or off throughout your life.

In simple terms, epigenetics refers to biological mechanisms that regulate gene activity without altering the DNA sequence itself. These mechanisms act like switches, determining whether certain genes are expressed or remain inactive.

According to research from PubMed Central – Epigenetics in Psychiatry, environmental exposures such as stress, trauma, nutrition, and toxins can significantly influence gene expression related to mental health.

Key epigenetic mechanisms include:

• DNA methylation: A process that can silence gene activity
• Histone modification: Alters how tightly DNA is packaged, affecting gene accessibility
• Non-coding RNA: Regulates how genes are translated into proteins

These processes explain why two individuals with similar genetic backgrounds may have very different mental health outcomes.

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Real-Life Interpretation of Epigenetics

Consider identical twins, who share nearly 100% of their DNA. Despite this, one twin may develop depression while the other does not.

Why does this happen?

Because life experiences—such as trauma, chronic stress, or supportive relationships—can modify how genes are expressed over time.

For instance:

• Childhood adversity may activate stress-response genes
• Positive social support may buffer harmful genetic expression
• Healthy lifestyle habits may promote protective biological pathways

This dynamic interaction highlights a critical point: your environment can influence how your genetic risk unfolds.

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Heritability of Mental Illness: What the Data Shows

Heritability is a statistical measure used in genetics to estimate how much of the variation in a condition within a population is influenced by genetic factors.

It is essential to understand that heritability:

• Applies to populations, not individuals
• Does not predict personal outcomes
• Reflects probability, not certainty

According to findings from the National Institute of Mental Health and large-scale genetic studies published in journals such as The Lancet Psychiatry, heritability estimates for common mental disorders include:

• Schizophrenia: ~70–80%
• Bipolar Disorder: ~60–85%
• Major Depression: ~35–45%
• Anxiety Disorders: ~30–50%
• ADHD: ~70–80%

These figures indicate that genetics plays a substantial role—but they also confirm that environmental factors remain critically important.

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Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS): Mapping Mental Health Risk

Advances in genetic technology have enabled researchers to analyze the human genome at an unprecedented scale through Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS).

These studies examine millions of genetic variants across large populations to identify patterns associated with mental health conditions.

A landmark study by the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium identified hundreds of genetic variants linked to disorders such as schizophrenia and depression.

However, each individual variant contributes only a small effect. It is the cumulative influence of many genes that increases overall risk.

This reinforces a key concept:

Mental illnesses are polygenic and multifactorial.

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Environmental Triggers That Interact with Genetic Risk

Even in individuals with a strong genetic predisposition, mental illness rarely develops in isolation. In most clinical cases, genetic vulnerability requires the presence of specific environmental or psychological triggers before symptoms become apparent. This interaction is well explained by the stress-diathesis model, where an underlying biological susceptibility is activated by external pressures. In practical terms, this means that a person may carry genetic risk factors for years without experiencing any symptoms—until certain life circumstances create enough strain on the brain’s regulatory systems to initiate clinical changes. These triggers influence brain chemistry, hormonal balance, and neural circuitry, gradually shaping emotional and behavioral responses.

These environmental triggers are not always dramatic or immediately obvious. In many cases, they develop gradually over time and may accumulate, creating a compounding effect on mental health. Understanding these factors is essential, not only for prevention but also for early intervention and long-term management of mental health conditions.

1. Chronic Stress

Chronic stress is one of the most significant and well-documented contributors to mental illness. Unlike short-term stress, which can be adaptive, prolonged exposure to stress places continuous strain on the body’s regulatory systems—particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This system controls the release of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. When stress becomes persistent, cortisol levels remain elevated, leading to physiological changes such as inflammation, disrupted sleep, impaired memory, and emotional dysregulation.

Over time, these biological effects can alter brain structures involved in mood regulation, including the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Clinically, this may manifest as anxiety, depression, irritability, or burnout. Individuals with genetic susceptibility may be especially sensitive to these changes, meaning that chronic stress can act as a powerful trigger for the onset of mental illness.

2. Childhood Trauma

Early life experiences play a foundational role in shaping mental health across the lifespan. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, or exposure to violence—can have long-lasting effects on brain development and stress-response systems. During childhood, the brain is highly plastic and responsive to environmental input, making it particularly vulnerable to harmful experiences.

Research shows that individuals with a history of childhood trauma are at significantly higher risk of developing mental health disorders later in life, including depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders. These experiences can lead to heightened stress sensitivity, impaired emotional regulation, and altered neural connectivity. Importantly, when combined with genetic vulnerability, the impact of trauma can be amplified, increasing the likelihood of clinical symptoms emerging earlier or more severely.

Reference: CDC – Adverse Childhood Experiences Study

3. Substance Use

Substance use, including alcohol, recreational drugs, and certain prescription medications when misused, can significantly disrupt the brain’s natural chemical balance. These substances often alter neurotransmitter systems such as dopamine, serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are critical for mood regulation, reward processing, and emotional stability.

In individuals with underlying genetic risk, substance use can act as both a trigger and an amplifier of mental illness. For example, excessive alcohol consumption may worsen depressive symptoms, while stimulant drugs can increase anxiety or trigger psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals. Additionally, long-term substance use can impair cognitive function, reduce emotional resilience, and create dependency cycles that further complicate mental health outcomes.

4. Social Isolation

Human beings are inherently social, and meaningful social connections play a vital role in maintaining psychological wellbeing. Social isolation—whether due to loneliness, lack of supportive relationships, or social withdrawal—has been strongly associated with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

From a biological perspective, isolation can influence stress hormone levels, increase inflammatory responses, and reduce the brain’s capacity for emotional regulation. Psychologically, it may lead to negative thought patterns, reduced self-worth, and a diminished sense of purpose. For individuals with genetic susceptibility, the absence of social support can remove a critical protective factor, making them more vulnerable to developing mental illness under stress.

5. Sleep Deprivation

Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for brain function, emotional regulation, and overall health. Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts the balance of neurotransmitters and stress hormones, impairing the brain’s ability to process emotions and respond effectively to daily challenges.

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep has been closely linked to a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and mood instability. It can also reduce cognitive performance, impair decision-making, and increase irritability. In individuals with genetic vulnerability, sleep disturbances may act as an early warning sign or a direct trigger for mental health symptoms, particularly in conditions such as bipolar disorder and depression.

You can read more about this in our internal guide:
Complete Guide to Sleep Hygiene

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Protective Factors That Reduce Genetic Risk

Just as environmental factors can increase risk, they can also provide powerful protection against mental illness—even in genetically vulnerable individuals.

Protective factors include:

• Strong family and social support systems
• Access to mental healthcare services
• Healthy coping mechanisms
• Stable living conditions
• Regular physical activity

Research from Harvard Medical School shows that physical activity can significantly reduce symptoms of depression by influencing brain chemistry and neuroplasticity.

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Neurobiology: How Genes Influence Brain Chemistry

Genetic factors often affect mental health by influencing the brain’s neurochemical systems.

Key neurotransmitters involved include:

• Serotonin: Regulates mood, sleep, and appetite
• Dopamine: Controls motivation and reward pathways
• Norepinephrine: Affects alertness and stress response

Variations in genes related to these neurotransmitters may alter how the brain processes emotions and stress.

For example:

• Reduced serotonin activity is associated with depression
• Dopamine dysregulation is linked to schizophrenia and ADHD
• Heightened stress response may increase anxiety disorders

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Clinical Insight: Why Some People Develop Illness and Others Do Not

From a clinical perspective, mental illness often emerges when multiple risk factors converge:

• Genetic susceptibility
• Environmental stressors
• Biological vulnerability
• Psychological coping limitations

This is commonly referred to as the “stress-diathesis model”.

Under this model:

• Diathesis = underlying vulnerability (genetic)
• Stress = external trigger

When stress exceeds an individual’s coping capacity, symptoms may emerge.

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Key Takeaways (Part 2)

• Epigenetics explains how environment influences gene expression
• Heritability reflects population risk, not individual certainty
• Mental illnesses involve multiple genes acting together
• Environmental triggers play a major role in activating risk
• Protective factors can significantly reduce genetic vulnerability

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Continue Reading: Part 3 will explore early warning signs, prevention strategies, lifestyle medicine, and personalized mental health care.

Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness: What to Watch For

One of the most clinically important aspects of mental health care—especially in individuals with a family history of psychiatric conditions—is early detection.

Mental illnesses rarely appear suddenly. In most cases, symptoms develop gradually, often beginning with subtle changes in mood, behavior, or cognitive function.

Recognizing these early signs allows for timely intervention, which can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), early identification and treatment can reduce symptom severity, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.

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Common Early Symptoms Across Mental Disorders

While symptoms vary depending on the condition, several early warning signs are commonly observed across multiple mental health disorders:

• Persistent sadness or low mood lasting more than two weeks
• Excessive worry, fear, or anxiety without clear cause
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities (anhedonia)
• Changes in appetite or significant weight fluctuations
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Fatigue or low energy despite adequate rest
• Irritability or mood instability

In more severe cases, symptoms may include:

• Delusions or hallucinations
• Extreme mood swings (mania or depression)
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If these symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional evaluation is essential.

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Why Early Intervention Matters

From a clinical standpoint, early intervention is one of the most effective strategies in mental health care.

Research consistently shows that:

• Early treatment improves long-term prognosis
• It reduces the risk of chronic illness
• It prevents functional decline in work and relationships
• It lowers the risk of hospitalization

For example, early intervention programs for psychosis have been shown to significantly improve recovery outcomes and reduce relapse rates.

Reference: Early Intervention in Psychiatry – Clinical Outcomes Study

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Prevention Strategies: Can Mental Illness Be Prevented?

While it is not always possible to completely prevent mental illness—especially when genetic vulnerability is present—many cases can be delayed, mitigated, or managed effectively.

Prevention focuses on reducing risk factors while strengthening protective mechanisms.

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1. Building Psychological Resilience

Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and recover from stress, adversity, or trauma.

Individuals with strong resilience are less likely to develop mental illness, even when exposed to significant stressors.

Key resilience-building strategies include:

• Developing problem-solving skills
• Maintaining a positive but realistic outlook
• Practicing emotional regulation techniques
• Building strong interpersonal relationships

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2. Lifestyle Medicine and Mental Health

Lifestyle choices play a critical role in modulating genetic risk. This emerging field—often referred to as lifestyle psychiatry—emphasizes the biological impact of daily habits on brain function.

Nutrition and Brain Health

Diet directly influences neurotransmitter production and brain inflammation.

A balanced diet rich in:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseeds)
• Whole grains
• Leafy green vegetables
• Lean proteins

has been associated with lower rates of depression.

Reference: Nutrition and Mental Health – Systematic Review

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Physical Activity

Regular exercise is one of the most effective non-pharmacological interventions for mental health.

It works by:

• Increasing endorphin release
• Enhancing neuroplasticity
• Reducing inflammation
• Improving sleep quality

Internal resource:
How Exercise Improves Mental Health

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Sleep Optimization

Sleep is fundamental to emotional regulation and cognitive function.

Chronic sleep deprivation is strongly linked to:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Cognitive impairment

External reference: Sleep Foundation – Mental Health and Sleep

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3. Stress Management Techniques

Chronic stress is one of the most significant environmental triggers for mental illness.

Effective stress management strategies include:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Cognitive reframing techniques
• Time management and workload balance

These interventions help regulate the body’s stress-response system and reduce cortisol levels.

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Real-Life Scenario: Preventing Mental Illness in High-Risk Individuals

Consider a young adult with a strong family history of depression.

Instead of waiting for symptoms to develop, preventive measures are implemented early:

• Regular counseling sessions
• Structured exercise routine
• Consistent sleep schedule
• Supportive social environment

Over time, despite genetic vulnerability, the individual maintains stable mental health.

This illustrates a key principle:

Genetic risk can be managed—and often significantly reduced—through proactive lifestyle and psychological strategies.

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Personalized Mental Health Care: The Future of Treatment

Modern psychiatry is moving toward personalized or precision medicine.

This approach considers:

• Genetic profile
• Environmental exposures
• Lifestyle factors
• Individual treatment response

One emerging field is pharmacogenetics, which studies how genetic differences influence medication response.

This allows clinicians to:

• Select more effective medications
• Reduce trial-and-error prescribing
• Minimize side effects

Reference: FDA – Precision Medicine Overview

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When to Seek Professional Help

Understanding when to seek help is critical, particularly for individuals with known genetic risk.

You should consider professional evaluation if:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks
• Daily functioning is affected
• Relationships or work performance decline
• You experience overwhelming stress or emotional distress

Mental health professionals may include:

• Psychiatrists
• Psychologists
• Licensed therapists
• Clinical social workers

Treatment options often include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Medication when indicated
• Support groups and community care

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Key Takeaways (Part 3)

• Early warning signs are often subtle but clinically significant
• Early intervention improves long-term outcomes
• Lifestyle choices can strongly influence mental health
• Preventive strategies are especially important for high-risk individuals
• Personalized medicine is shaping the future of mental health care

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Continue Reading: Part 4 will cover advanced research, myths vs facts, global mental health trends, and frequently asked questions.

Myths vs Facts About Mental Illness and Genetics

Despite advances in science, misconceptions about mental illness and genetics remain widespread. These myths often contribute to stigma, fear, and delayed treatment.

Myth 1: If mental illness runs in your family, you will definitely develop it

Fact: Genetic predisposition increases risk but does not guarantee outcomes. Environmental factors, coping mechanisms, and lifestyle choices significantly influence whether a disorder develops.

Myth 2: Mental illness is purely genetic

Fact: Mental health conditions result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. No single cause explains their development.

Myth 3: There is a single “mental illness gene”

Fact: Mental illnesses are polygenic, meaning they involve multiple genes interacting together, each contributing a small effect.

Myth 4: Nothing can be done if you have genetic risk

Fact: Preventive strategies, early intervention, and healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce risk and improve outcomes.

Myth 5: Mental illness is a personal weakness

Fact: Mental illnesses are medical conditions involving brain function, neurochemistry, and biological processes—not character flaws.

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Global Trends in Mental Health

Mental health disorders are increasing worldwide, influenced by urbanization, socioeconomic pressures, digital lifestyles, and global stressors.

According to the World Health Organization Global Mental Health Report:

• Approximately 1 in 8 people globally lives with a mental disorder
• Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide
• Access to mental healthcare remains limited in many regions

In many low- and middle-income countries, including parts of Africa, mental health services are often under-resourced, making awareness and prevention even more critical.

This highlights the importance of:

• Community-based mental health education
• Early screening and intervention programs
• Reducing stigma around mental illness

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can mental illness skip a generation?

Yes. Genetic traits do not always appear in every generation. A person may inherit susceptibility without showing symptoms, while future generations may express the condition under certain environmental conditions.

2. Should I be concerned if mental illness runs in my family?

Awareness is important, but concern should be balanced with proactive action. Understanding your risk allows you to adopt preventive strategies and seek early support if needed.

3. Can genetic testing predict mental illness?

Currently, genetic testing cannot definitively predict mental illness. While it may identify risk factors, it cannot determine whether someone will develop a condition.

4. How can I reduce my risk?

You can reduce risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Managing stress effectively
• Seeking support when needed
• Staying physically active
• Building strong social connections

5. Are children of parents with mental illness at high risk?

They may have an increased risk, but outcomes depend heavily on environmental factors, upbringing, and access to support systems.

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Advanced Research: Where Science Is Heading

Mental health research is evolving rapidly, with new discoveries reshaping how we understand and treat psychiatric conditions.

1. Precision Psychiatry

Future mental health care aims to tailor treatment based on individual genetic, biological, and environmental profiles.

2. Brain Imaging and Genetics

Neuroimaging studies are increasingly linking genetic variations to structural and functional differences in the brain.

3. Preventive Psychiatry

Research is focusing on identifying high-risk individuals early and implementing interventions before symptoms develop.

4. Digital Mental Health Tools

Mobile apps, telemedicine, and AI-driven tools are expanding access to mental health care globally.

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Real-World Perspective: Living with Genetic Risk

In clinical practice, many individuals with a family history of mental illness live stable, healthy lives without ever developing a disorder.

What makes the difference?

Often, it comes down to:

• Awareness of risk
• Early coping strategies
• Supportive environments
• Access to healthcare

Conversely, individuals without genetic risk may still develop mental illness due to severe environmental stressors.

This reinforces a central theme of this guide:

Mental health is shaped by interaction—not isolation—of multiple factors.

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Conclusion: Are Mental Illnesses Genetic?

Mental illnesses can have a genetic component, but they are not determined by genetics alone.

Instead, they emerge from a complex interaction between:

• Genetic susceptibility
• Environmental exposure
• Psychological resilience
• Biological processes

Understanding this interplay empowers individuals to take control of their mental health through:

• Healthy lifestyle choices
• Early intervention
• Strong social support
• Professional care when needed

Genetics may influence your starting point—but they do not define your endpoint.

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References

• National Institute of Mental Health – Genetics and Mental Disorders
• World Health Organization – Mental Disorders
• American Psychiatric Association
• Harvard Medical School – Mental Health Research
• The Lancet Psychiatry Journal
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)

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VitalWell Hub is committed to publishing accurate, evidence-based health information. All content is developed using credible medical sources, peer-reviewed research, and clinical guidelines.

Articles are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current scientific understanding and best practices in healthcare.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, consult a qualified healthcare provider.