Introducing Epigenetics & It’s Notable Impact in Behavioral Healthcare-04/2021 Position Paper
Table of Contents
04/2021 Epigenetics Position Paper Summary:
In this Position Paper, we take a look at epigenetics and how it may affect our understanding of behavioral health. First, we briefly discuss and define epigenetics. Then, we explore how this field of study may impact our approach to behavioral health treatment and psychiatric disorders. Finally, we underscore the importance of community-first strategies for addressing environmental risks and social determinants of health — including how they affect epigenetics.
Epigenetics, which looks at heritable changes to gene function that occur “over and above” changes to the DNA sequence, is a growing field of study. Because of how epigenetic modifications can alter gene expression through generations, researchers are uncovering important connections to health and disease, including behavioral health and psychiatric disorders. We also are learning that these modifications sometimes may be driven by such factors as social determinants, physical environments, and stress.
As one of Ohio’s leading behavioral health providers, OhioGuidestone is taking the lead on promoting, educating, and responding to issues that may affect or be affected by epigenetics as they relate to our clients, their families, and their communities.
We hope that this position paper will help springboard further discussion and exploration. Because we believe it may be significant to real-world health and disease, we encourage robust and disciplined engagement with the science. This includes careful consideration of how misuse of scientific research has harmed vulnerable or marginalized communities, both historically and through the present day.
Read below and visit our Position Papers page to explore the rest of our releases!
Who Should Read This Position Paper?
At the Institute, our Position Papers are accessible and free to anyone looking to learn! However, we encourage the following groups to use this paper and the contents immediately to better improve behavioral healthcare for our communities:
- Primary Care Providers
- Behavioral Health Providers
- Clinicians
- Policymakers
- Researchers
What’s Inside?
- Takeaways and action items
- What is Epigenetics?
- Impact on disease and health
- Understanding them as a mechanism — not a cause — of health disparities
- Behavioral Health Interventions
- Supporting Resources and References
Feedback & Questions
The Institute of Family & Community Impact, an initiative of OhioGuidestone, understands all of our work is informed by the communities we serve. Have questions about who we are or what we do? Or have a suggestion for a future Position Paper topic? Visit our FAQ page or contact us today.
