Depression: The mind and body

Depression is complex. I'm frequently asked to explain how something "mental" can be physical. Physiologically, several mechanisms and changes in the body and brain can play a significant role:

Neurotransmitter Imbalance

Neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are at work to regulate our mood. Imbalances or dysfunctions in these chemicals can contribute to feelings of sadness, fatigue, and other clinical symptoms. What causes this imbalance? Factors such as diet, nutrition, medications, substance use, and medical conditions. Listed below are factors that we consider.

Hormones, Vitamins, Antioxidants: Hormones fluctuate during pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders contributing to mood swings and irritability. Elevated TSH levels (Thyroid stimulating hormone) re a primary indicator of hypothyroidism; which can induce symptoms of depression. Vitamin D, and B-12 are essential to healthy cognitive functioning. Low levels can cause fatigue, sadness, and insomnia.

Neuroplasticity: Decreased neuroplasticity, can affect how the brain responds to stress and regulates mood.

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers in the blood and brain can affect neurotransmitter function and brain activity, contributing to depressive symptoms.

Genetics influence our response to stress and vulnerability to depression. Certain genetic variations may affect neurotransmitter systems and stress response pathways.

Structure: Abnormalities in brain regions involved in mood regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, can be associated with depression. Changes in brain connectivity and activity patterns can impact emotional regulation. Changes in the hippocampus (a brain region involved in mood and memory) has been observed in some people with depression.

Stress: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which governs the body’s stress response, is often disregulated in depression. This can lead to altered cortisol levels and an increased sensitivity to stress.

Physiological factors interact with psychological, environmental, and social factors to form a complex representation of depression. Holistic psychiatry focuses on examining these different aspects through root cause analysis. For instance, if there is a deficiency, such as low vitamin D levels, we can address it, restoring balance to your mind and body. A holistic approach may also include medication, therapy, nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments.