Biology of Depression

Depression is a condition that has been extensively studied and researched upon. This mental illness seems to originate from psychological, biological and social factors. While the social factors are mainly triggers, biological and psychological factors function as stressors or diatheses.

What You Should Know About The Biology of Depression

We know that a simple brain chemical imbalance can cause mild to severe depression. Research shows that brain chemicals are just a part of the cause of depression and age. There are many other dimensions to this illness that includes the biological which by itself opens up many complex layers. Today, a lot of research continues on the biology of depression. There is an in-depth understanding of the functioning of our brains and other biological processes such as hormones and neurotransmitters and their role in the onset and development of depression.

Role of Depression Neurotransmitters

A host of chemicals are used by our brains to communicate with the nervous system and with other parts of the brain. Also called the neurotransmitters, these chemicals are sent and received by neurons which are nothing but the nerve cells in our brains like panic disorder symptoms. Communication between neurons happens because of the neurotransmitter exchange. All our brain functions basically depend on this communication.

Depression Information On Neurotransmitters

When there is an imbalance or problem with the depression neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, it leads to depression.  Studies conducted on the biology of depression shows that many physiological functions in our bodies are regulated by serotonin, an important neurotransmitter. Produced by the serotonergic neurons, serotonin regulates functions such as mood, aggression, sleep, sexual behaviour and eating.

Low levels of depression neurotransmitters like serotonin can lead to moderate or severe depression which in some cases may also cause patients to feel suicidal. Research studies show that low norepinephrine levels do not cause mood changes or depression in everyone. Neurons producing norepinephrine in fact show extra activity in some people who are depressed. Latest studies show that there is a significant drop in levels of norepinephrine with a decrease in serotonin levels. This in turn leads to depression.

Depression Information On Norepinephrine and Dopamine

A lot of research continues to be done on depression, a condition that affects millions of people across the world. This condition has been linked to norepinephrine and stress by another stream of research. Norepinephrine is an indispensable chemical in our brain that helps us recognize and react to stressful situations. It goes without saying that in those who are unable to handle stress efficiently, there is an imbalance of norepinephrine. This deficiency makes them very vulnerable to stress and patients eventually break down.

Depression information also reveals that dopamine is directly related to depression. This chemical is responsible to give us that much needed drive and motivation to push ourselves to seek rewards. Dopamine also fosters our ability to experience a sense of pleasure. Low levels of dopamine in people who are depressed could explain why they are unable to enjoy pleasurable activities they used to before they became depressed.