Are you one of those people who is always happy, no matter what life throws at you? Or, do you struggle with the blues?
Either way it seems your genes could have a part to play in how happy you are, as researchers have now identified the ‘happiness gene’.
A huge study of hundreds of thousands of people, carried out by 190 researchers in 17 countries, looked at genetic variants associated with well-being, depression and neuroticism.
This revealed three genetic variants linked to how satisfied a person feels with their life, as well as two gene variants linked to depressive symptoms and 11 associated with neuroticism.
The researchers were keen to point out that genes are not the whole story and that environment and the way we interact with the world also plays a part. However, it could well explain why some people find it easier to stay happy, no matter what is going on in their lives, than others.
If you are struggling with depression, there is help. So, you do not need to think that it is all in the genes and there is nothing you can do about it.
Medications can be of great benefit for some people, as can therapy. We have an excellent psychotherapist working at Medcare, who offers free initial consultations so you can find out if he is the right person to help you. To book, call 966 860 258.