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Genetics & Mental Health Issues: What’s the Link?

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By: Laura Bennett

We know social and environmental factors can influence symptoms of depression, but what about genetics? Does our ancestry play into how we process life’s stressful events?

This article discusses mental health topics.  If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

A recent study from McGill University and the Douglas Institute looked at the effects of depression on the brain and, after examining post-mortem brain tissue from individuals who died during an episode of major depressive disorder. Researchers found that certain neurons and microglia may function differently in people living with depression – disrupting systems related to mood, stress and inflammation.

“Our genetic makeup can influence how sensitive we are to stress and how we respond to it,” Clarity Health Care Psychologist Enzo Somosi said.

“For some people, that heightened sensitivity can make them more vulnerable to mental health struggles, but it doesn’t mean those challenges are inevitable.”

Enzo explained on a physical level, depression can influence the way different areas of the brain “talk” to each other – some regions may show inflammation or thinning, while hormones such as cortisol can become irregular – and while genetics also play a part, it’s not in a deterministic way.

“It’s best to think of mental health issues as the result of a gene–environment interaction,” Enzo said.

The “dandelion-orchid” theory created by Dr. W. Thomas Boyce is often used by mental health practitioners to assess how sensitive a person is to their environment.

“The dandelion–orchid idea is a really helpful way to understand how our genes and our environment work together,” Enzo said.

“Some people are a bit like dandelions – they can grow almost anywhere.

“They feel emotions, of course, but they tend to move through things more quickly and cope well across a range of circumstances.

“Others are more like orchids. They’re equally beautiful, but they’re more sensitive to what’s happening around them.

“A bit of stress or a difficult patch in life can hit harder and take longer to recover from.

“But the important part is that, just like real orchids, with the right care and the right conditions, they can thrive.

“This perspective helps us understand a person’s temperament and how we can best support them, rather than assuming everyone responds to life in the same way,” he said.

To safeguard mental wellbeing Enzo encouraged simple, caring steps: regular exercise, a balanced diet, healthy sleep rhythms and staying socially connected.

“One of the biggest [helps] is recognising that you can improve in these areas and that your wellbeing isn’t fixed,” Enzo said.

“Staying connected with your community also makes a difference, even if it feels a bit tedious at times. Pushing through to meet up with friends and having a yarn about whatever’s going on can really help protect against developing more chronic mental health issues.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

About the Author: Laura Bennett is a media professional, broadcaster and writer from Sydney, Australia.

Feature image: Canva

A 16-Year-Old Aussie Teen Is Spreading Faith Through Fragrance

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By: Bec Harris

At just 16 years old, Ryan Oosthuizen is doing something remarkable. He’s not just starting a business, he’s starting a ministry.

Ryan is the founder of BoTL – Blessings of the Lord, a Christian fragrance brand based in Perth. What began as a prayer, when he was just 15, has become a purpose-driven business designed to spread faith in a subtle but powerful way.

From Prayer to Purpose

Ryan didn’t wake up one day with a business plan. Instead, he started with a question.

“What am I meant to do with my life?”

Like many young people, he felt uncertain about the future. So he did something simple but bold. He prayed. He asked God for direction. According to Ryan, the answer was clear.

God gave him a vision. That vision became BoTL.

With support from his parents and a strong Christian upbringing, Ryan stepped out in faith. His goal was not profit alone, it was impact.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Ryan Oosthuizen’s journey has not been easy. He lost his brother, and the grief was deep. The questions were heavy. Yet, instead of stopping, Ryan chose to move forward.

He decided to honour his brother by living with purpose. He committed to showing others that no matter what happens, faith can carry you through. With God at the centre, Ryan believes nothing is impossible.

That belief now fuels everything BoTL stands for.

What Does BoTL Mean?

BoTL stands for Blessings of the Lord. But it is more than a name.

Ryan describes BoTL as a message in a bottle. Each fragrance is designed to spark curiosity, start conversations, and gently introduce people to faith.

It is not about preaching, it’s about presence. “It’s a subtle way to help people encounter God,” Ryan says. “Even through something as simple as smelling good.”

Why Fragrance?

The answer is practical and personal. Ryan loves fragrance – he always has. He also knows that first impressions matter. People respond to scent – it opens doors. More importantly, Ryan believes God can use anything, even perfume.

By combining passion with purpose, Ryan found a way to grow God’s Kingdom through something he genuinely loves.

Building a Fragrance Brand at 15

Starting a fragrance business is no small task. Especially at 15. Ryan learned quickly. He researched online, watched videos, studied scent profiles and fragrance notes. Eventually, he partnered with a fragrance manufacturer in Dubai.

Ryan selected specific accords and notes. From 14 fragrance samples, he narrowed the range down to four signature scents. Those four are now in production, with 1,000 bottles arriving in Perth.

The BoTL Fragrance Range

Each BoTL fragrance carries its own identity:

  • Aroma Day – A fresh, uplifting men’s scent with citrus notes
  • The Chosen – A deeper men’s fragrance with sandalwood and vanilla
  • Jubilation – A sweet women’s scent featuring rum and caramel
  • Perfection – A youthful floral blend with grapefruit and spice

The fragrances were tested by more than 50 people. The favourites rose quickly and the choice was clear.

Marketing With Meaning

BoTL’s marketing strategy focuses on social media. Ryan uses TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to share his story, his faith, and his fragrances. He shares short videos, honest conversations and has a clear purpose.

Some Christian influencers have already partnered with him. The goal is simple. Reach people where they are and let the story speak for itself.

Distribution From a Garage

Ryan Oosthuizen’s operation is hands-on – very hands-on. The stock is being stored in his family garage. Ryan packs every order himself. He labels the boxes. He even sprays fragrance inside so the package smells great on arrival.

Customers can choose local pickup in Mandurah or Australia Post shipping across Australia and New Zealand. International shipping is planned for the future.

A Business With an Eternal Vision

Ryan doesn’t see BoTL as just a brand – he sees it as a ministry.

His long-term vision is global. He hopes the business will fund mission work around the world, from the poorest communities to the wealthiest cities, Ryan wants to share the love of Jesus with anyone willing to listen.

A Message to Young Dreamers

Ryan Oosthuizen’s advice is simple. If God puts something on your heart, do it.

Don’t wait, don’t overthink it. Pray, talk to people, take the step. Ryan believes that if God is behind it, nothing can stop it.

Age doesn’t matter. Background doesn’t matter. Faith does.

Supporting Young Faith-Filled Entrepreneurs

Ryan’s story is a reminder that God can work through anyone, at any age, in any industry.

From loss came purpose. From prayer came vision. BoTL is more than perfume, it is proof that when faith leads, impact follows. Check out the BoTL range here.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Supplied

Supporting a Child with Separation Anxiety

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By: Sabrina Peters


It’s one thing to drop your child off at school or daycare and see them wave goodbye. It’s another thing entirely when that goodbye comes with tears, clinging, and pleas not to leave.

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Building Resilient Kids as We Head Into a New Year

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By: Bec Harris

As we head into a new year, many parents are reflecting on family routines and goals for 2026. One common challenge is helping children take responsibility for everyday tasks – like putting away school bags, picking up towels, or tidying toys – without constant reminders. While it may seem like children are acting deliberately, understanding what’s happening in their brains can completely change how we respond.

Learning Intervention Specialist, Natalie Nicholls from PLECS Learning, shared insights about resilient kids and how parents can take a compassionate, brain-based approach to executive functioning as they head into the new year.

Understanding the “See and Do” Approach

Natalie explained that expecting children to automatically complete tasks often overlooks how their brains process information. For example, a child may ignore a school bag left in the hallway, not out of defiance, but because their brain is overwhelmed with other priorities or sensory input.

“When we delve into the why underneath, it helps us get more action and the results we’re actually looking for,” Natalie said.

As we start a new year, parents can shift their perception. Instead of assuming a child is being difficult, ask: What else is going on in their brain right now? Recognising that each child – and adult – is wired differently is a crucial first step toward effective, compassionate guidance.

How Brain Chemistry Influences Behaviour

Natalie highlighted the role of dopamine, a chemical that influences motivation, task initiation, and attention. Low dopamine levels, often seen in children with ADHD traits, can make it harder for kids to start tasks or notice what needs to be done.

Parents can support their children in the new year by:

  1. Exploring ways to increase dopamine naturally
  2. Using structured strategies to teach children how to see and act on tasks

“We cannot expect a child’s behaviour to exceed the brain’s capacity,” Natalie explained. “This applies to adults too – when expectations exceed capacity, we get stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.”

Understanding this principle allows parents to approach children with more compassion and less frustration in 2026 and beyond.

Trauma and Neurodiversity: Seeing the Bigger Picture

Natalie also addressed the impact of trauma and neurodiversity. Children who have experienced trauma may react based on the age at which the trauma occurred. Similarly, children with ADHD or other neurodiverse traits may appear hyperactive or withdrawn.

“The brain will go into protective mode,” Natalie said. “When parents are stressed too, their child’s nervous system mirrors that stress.”

Recognising these patterns ensures that teaching moments occur when both parent and child have the capacity to engage, rather than in moments of heightened emotion – a crucial approach to begin the year with calm and clarity.

Practical Steps for “See and Do”

Natalie outlined practical ways to implement this approach as families start fresh in the new year:

  1. Check Your Capacity First – Ensure you’re calm before addressing tasks. Teaching when triggered is ineffective.
  2. Start Small – Use micro-moments in everyday life. Speak out loud about what you see, e.g., “I see the dishwasher is full. What could we do?”
  3. Ask Questions, Don’t Command – Invite participation rather than issuing orders. For example: “Can you help me with the groceries?” instead of “Put the groceries away.”
  4. Praise the Action, Not the Person – Focus feedback on specific behaviour rather than personal traits: “You noticed the gate needed opening and did it – great work!”
  5. Build Life Skills – These micro-moments teach children to notice and act on tasks independently, a skill that extends to school, work, and life beyond the home.

“This isn’t just about a tidy house,” Natalie emphasised. “It’s about equipping children with a skill for life.”

A Kinder Approach for a Fresh Start

By focusing on compassion, brain capacity, and micro-teaching moments, parents can reduce frustration and help children develop independence as we head into 2026. Natalie’s approach encourages parents to shift perception, ask questions, and provide structured support, rather than relying on repeated commands or criticism.

“The goal is not a perfect house, but resilient kids who can see, decide, and act,” Natalie concluded.

Key Takeaways for Parents This New Year

  • Recognise your child’s brain capacity before setting expectations
  • Use questions and observation instead of commands
  • Praise specific actions, not personal traits
  • Focus on micro-moments to teach life-long skills

Implementing these strategies can help families start the new year with calmer routines, stronger bonds, and resilient, capable children ready to face the year ahead.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

The Purpose of Praise and Worship in Church

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By: Bec Harris

When you walk into a church service, chances are the first thing you’ll hear is music.

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Why I Won’t Play Soccer on Sabbath

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By: Silvan Wallner

When Swiss soccer player Silvan Wallner discovered the biblical Sabbath, he immediately knew he’d have to make the hardest decision of his life.

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Why Christians Need a Different Approach to Money

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By: Alex Cook

Money can feel messy for many Christians. On one hand we want to be generous and focused on eternal things. On the other hand bills arrive, kids need schooling, and culture pushes us to upgrade everything.

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The Sticky Science of Chewing Gum: What’s Really in Your Chew?

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By: Bec Harris

If you’ve ever been told “Don’t swallow your gum – it’ll stay in your stomach for seven years!”, you’re not alone.

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New Year, Sustainable You: A Fresh Approach

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By: Lorrene McClymont

New year, new you, right? That’s the way it’s supposed to be in January. But what if you aimed for a new year, sustainable you?

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Preparing for Your First Baby

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By: Sabrina Peters


There’s nothing quite like the moment you find out you’re expecting your first child. It’s thrilling. Surreal. Overwhelming. From picking out onesies to researching prams, the list of “things to do” seems endless.

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