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Reviewed by 1 scientist
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Balance
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NC
Nicholas Clifton
Reviewed on 16 Jul 2026
7
Evidence
9
Balance
8
Clarity

This video gives a clear and accessible introduction to the genetics of mental health. It correctly explains that conditions such as schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder are influenced by many genetic variants, each usually contributing only a very small amount to risk. It also appropriately emphasises that genes do not determine whether someone will develop a condition, and that environmental and developmental factors remain important.

However, the video sometimes describes particular genes as being “for” specific disorders. This is misleading. Most associated genes influence broader biological processes and may contribute to several different psychiatric or neurodevelopmental conditions. The discussion of genetic testing is also more optimistic than the current evidence supports, as genetic information generally cannot yet predict an individual’s diagnosis or identify the most effective treatment.

Overall, the video provides a helpful introduction, but viewers should treat claims about individual genes and personalised prediction with caution.

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