fazTimes media: In a big scientific discovery, a team of researchers led by King’s College London has found strong clues that our genes play a role in how we react to the world around us. This new finding could help explain why some people develop mental health issues like ADHD, autism, and anxiety. The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, is the biggest of its kind and used data from identical twins. This special research method helps scientists better understand the effects of both genes and the environment, since identical twins share the same DNA.

The study brought together experts from 23 universities, who looked at data from nearly 22,000 identical twins. Their main goal? To find out how differences in genes affect how people react to things in their lives and how this might lead to mental health problems.

Why This Research Matters

You might think this is just a science story from far away, but it has real meaning for people here in India, too. From city teenagers facing stress to children in villages with learning issues, mental health is becoming a growing concern. This study helps us understand that not everyone handles life the same way. Some kids may be more sensitive to stress or change, and it could be due to their genes. Knowing this can help doctors, teachers, and parents offer better, more personalized care.

What Did Scientists Find?

Dr. Elham Assary, the lead scientist, explained the study simply: “People react differently to life events because of their genes. Our results show that some gene changes affect how a person experiences things, which in turn may increase their chances of developing anxiety, autism, or ADHD.”

Here’s what the study found:

Genes related to brain growth and the immune system were linked to traits seen in autism.
Genes that control how the body handles stress were tied to symptoms of depression.
Genes linked to brain chemicals like dopamine and adrenaline were connected to hallucinations or delusional thoughts.

Why Some People React More Strongly Than Others

One of the biggest takeaways from this study is that some people are born more emotionally sensitive than others. This means they may be more deeply affected by both happy and stressful situations. Professor Thalia Eley from King’s College London explained, “Genes help shape how a person responds to the world. Some people are more emotionally reactive, which can be either a strength or a weakness depending on what they face.” So, being sensitive isn’t a bad thing. It just means some people might need extra care in tough times, and they may shine even more in supportive environments.

Why Use Identical Twins in This Study?

You might wonder why researchers used twins for this work. Identical twins have the same genes, so if they grow up in the same home but still react differently to the same things, that difference likely comes from how their genes shape their sensitivity to those experiences. That’s why twin studies are so useful when trying to understand how genes and life experiences work together.

What This Means for India

Mental health issues are increasing in India, especially among young people. Reports say about 1 in 7 Indians face some form of mental health challenge, from anxiety and depression to ADHD. Yet many families still don’t fully understand these conditions and often feel ashamed. This study sends a powerful message: Mental health is not just about how someone was raised; it can also be tied to their biology.

Dr. Nandita Rao, a child brain specialist in Mumbai, puts it this way: “Parents often feel guilty when a child struggles with ADHD or autism. But now we know that a child’s genes can make them more sensitive. The same school or home can feel different to each child.”

A Step Toward Better Treatment

The study gives hope for a future where treatment is more personal.

Imagine if we could:

Use a simple gene test to see how a child handles stress.
Create school setups that work better for sensitive students.
Choose the right medicine or therapy based on how someone’s body responds to stress or happiness.

This isn’t science fiction anymore. We’re getting closer to a world where mental health support is tailored to each person’s needs.

What’s Next?

The team behind this research wants to keep going. They plan to include people from different parts of the world, including Asia and Africa, to see how genetic sensitivity works in different places and cultures.

In India, interest in gene research is growing. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is already funding studies on mental health and genetics. This new research could be a guide for Indian scientists working in the same direction.

Let’s End the Stigma

One of the biggest impacts of this study goes beyond science; it’s about changing how we talk about mental health. For too long, people have believed that ADHD comes from bad parenting or that anxiety is just “overthinking.” But now we know that genes also play a big role. Mental health is just as real as physical health. And thanks to research like this, we can prove it.

Final Thoughts

This new study by King’s College London is a big moment in the world of mental health science. It shows us that some people are born more emotionally tuned in. That’s not a flaw; it’s just a part of who they are.

For India, the lesson is clear: We need to move away from a “one-size-fits-all” approach and start looking at each person’s unique needs. Most of all, we need to stop judging and start understanding. Behind every child who’s anxious or struggles to sit still, there might be a deeper story, and it starts in their DNA.

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