Psychiatric genomics, mental health equity, and intersectionality: A framework for research and practice

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Genomics
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Psychiatric illness causes are complex, not easily quantified for diagnosis and treatment.
• Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) offer potential for genetic predictors and precision medicine.
• Overemphasis on genetics may overshadow crucial social factors and structural injustices in mental healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a comprehensive approach to mental illness that integrates biological and social factors.
• To propose an intersectional framework for psychiatric genomics.
• To guide professionals in incorporating social context, diversity, and ethics into psychiatric genomics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and theoretical framework development.
• Analysis of the limitations of current psychiatric genomics approaches.
• Proposal of an intersectional model for research and clinical application.

Main Results:

• Current psychiatric genomics approaches may neglect social determinants of mental health.
• An intersectional framework is essential for a holistic understanding of mental illness.
• Integrating social context, diversity, and ethics is crucial for equitable mental healthcare.

Conclusions:

• Psychiatric genomics must adopt an intersectional dimension to complement social approaches.
• This framework aims to alleviate social distress and reduce mental health inequities.
• Professionals in psychiatric genomics need guidance on incorporating social and ethical considerations.