Anxiety and depression can be caused by a combination of factors and can have a significant impact on daily life, both mentally and physically.
Anxiety and depression are a risk factor for other conditions.
Take (early) signs of anxiety and depression seriously and try to prevent or mitigate them.
Anxiety and depression and your health
There are a number of health effects associated with anxiety and depression.
Preventing anxiety and depression reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s
Depression, especially in later life, is associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. A possible explanation for this is that depression can promote cognitive decline, but it is also possible that depression is an early stage of dementia.
Preventing anxiety and depression reduces the risk of Parkinson’s disease
Anxiety and depression are associated with a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. They may also be an indicator of an early stage of Parkinson’s, as a low serotonin level in the brain is linked to both Parkinson’s and depression.
Preventing anxiety and depression reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
People with depression or anxiety and mood disorders are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and in these individuals the initial stage of the disease process may be accelerated. Stress can lead to high blood pressure, a high cholesterol level and an increase in inflammatory factors. Depression also often goes hand in hand with an unhealthy lifestyle.
iGene Passport
iGene offers you an insight into your personal risks of developing conditions and tells you whether preventing anxiety and depression may be particularly important for you to help prevent certain conditions. In addition, an iGene Passport provides you with information on what else you can do to reduce any risks. Here we focus on behaviour that will help you maximise the benefits to your health. In the publication below you can read more about what iGene can do for you.