
Brain Health Bootcamp
2 mins 22 secs
Ages 14 - 18
This video provides an overview of brain health conditions, discussing their origins and factors that contribute to their development. It covers genetics, lifestyle, environment, and past experiences as potential influences on brain health.
There are many different types of brain health conditions, each with specific, diagnosable symptoms and characteristics. These conditions can alter one's thinking, emotions, behavior, ability to function, and ability to maintain relationships. So, where do brain health conditions come from? They are often a result of multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, environment, and past experiences. Let's start with genetics. Brain health conditions can exist in a person's DNA. If a family member has a brain health condition, the individual may be more likely to develop a similar condition. However, research into the genetics of brain health conditions is ongoing. A child of a parent with a brain health condition will not necessarily develop any condition. Additionally, no single gene or set of genes can explain the development of a brain health condition. Next, let's discuss lifestyle. If a person does not take care of themselves physically, for instance, by maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and self-care, they may be more likely to develop a brain health condition. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and substance abuse, can also play a significant role. Now, let's consider the environment. If a person is often in a stressful environment, for instance, with an abusive parent or a bully at school, they are more likely to develop a brain health condition. Other environmental factors, such as pollution, weather, access to green space, and housing conditions can also impact brain health. Lastly, we have past experiences. If a person has experienced trauma in their life, or if a role model exhibits disordered behavior, that person is more likely to develop a brain health condition. The feelings of stress and the aftereffects of trauma may continue for an extended period of time, putting someone at risk.