Description:
<jats:p>The present study reports a two‐year follow‐up of psychological effects of predictive testing for Huntington's disease. Questionnaires assessing depression, general health, well‐being, self injurious behavior, life satisfaction, and lifestyle were completed by 35 carriers and 58 non‐carriers before the predictive test, and 2, 6, 12, and 24 months afterwards. Both carriers and non‐carriers showed high suicidal ideation before the predictive testing. Depression scores and frequency of suicidal thoughts increased for carriers, compared to non‐carriers, over time. There were no differences regarding life satisfaction or life style between carriers and non‐carriers. Predictive testing was beneficial in reducing overall ill‐health symptoms and increasing well‐being for those initially expressing concern about Huntington's disease. The importance of assessing suicidal ideation and of continuing to provide adequate support is emphasized.</jats:p>