UK-based mental health professionals' perceptions of genetic and environmental risk for psychiatric conditions

We aimed to uncover UK-based mental health professionals' knowledge and perceptions of psychiatric genetic risk, comparing those with and without a medical degree to identify training gaps.

Via an online survey, we asked 152 mental health professionals about (a) genetic knowledge using the 6-item International Genetic Literacy and Attitudes Survey (iGLAS), (b) confidence discussing genetic and environmental risk, (c) perceived causes of psychiatric conditions, and (d) how often patients ask questions about genetic or environmental risk. We compared those with (n = 56) and without (n = 96) a medical degree via linear regressions.

Approximately one-quarter (27%) indicated patients always or often asked about genetic risk for their condition. While genetic knowledge was good overall (mean iGLAS score = 4.36/6), 10% believed at least one psychiatric condition was caused by only environmental or only genetic factors. 30% felt confident discussing genetic risk with patients and their relatives. Participants with a medical degree demonstrated greater genetic knowledge (mean = 5.02, SD = 0.91) than those without [mean = 3.97, SD = 1.31; β = 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.64-1.47, P < 0.001], and were more confident discussing genetic risk (β = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.20-1.01, P = 0.004). However, this latter finding was non-significant after controlling for sex. Confidence in discussing environmental risk was not linked to training background.

Patients are curious about genetic risk, yet professionals' confidence discussing this was low, especially among those without medical degrees. We highlight the need for accessible psychiatric genetics education for mental health professionals.