Helen Dolling, Kym Winter and Melanie Watson: The impact of a genetic diagnosis on mental health

In this episode of the G Word, Vivienne Parry, the Head of Public
Engagement at Genomics England, is joined by Helen Dolling, a
researcher at the Centre for Family Research at the University of
Cambridge, Kym Winter, the Clinical Director and founder of
Rare Minds, and Melanie Watson, the Lead Genetic Counsellor for
the Wessex Clinical Genetic Services, to discuss the impact that
a genetic diagnosis can have on mental health for both the person
directly affected and their wider family.


For Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 (15 to 21 May) we want to
signpost to resources and support available for those families
affected by a genetic diagnosis. Our guests discuss the gaps in
mental health support and how the process of receiving a genetic
diagnosis could be improved to support the mental health of those
affected.


You can read the transcript here:
Genetic-diagnosis-and-impact-on-mental-health.docx


 


Resources and support mentioned in this podcast:


Charities and patient organisations


Rareminds work in partnership with patient organisations to
provide psychotherapeutic counselling, groups, and training about
the mental health impact of rare conditions. 


Unique provide support, information and networking to families
affected by rare chromosome and gene disorders.


Genetic Alliance UK have a comprehensive list of
condition-specific patient organisations.


SWAN UK supports families affected by a syndrome without a
name. 


Gene People provide valuable resources for adults and children
affected by genetic disorders.


Affinity Hub signposts to emotional support (including
counselling) for parents and carers of children with special
needs.


 


Other resources


Rareminds and Medics4Rare Diseases have worked together on a
module for Health Care Professionals on 'Rare Diseases and Mental
Health'.