A new study suggests a complex relationship between poverty and mental illness. While past studies showed a link, this research delves deeper, finding that poverty can cause mental health issues like depression and schizophrenia. Conversely, conditions like ADHD and schizophrenia contribute to poverty.
Researchers used genetic data from the UK Biobank and the Psychiatric Genomic Consortium to examine this two-way influence. They identified poverty based on income and social deprivation, and used Mendelian randomization to determine causal relationships. Their findings highlight the importance of addressing social factors like poverty when tackling mental illness. By understanding this interplay, policymakers can develop more effective interventions to break the cycle of poverty and mental health challenges.