What Is Depression?

Researchers don't know for sure what causes depression, but they have determined that it is definitely a disorder that has biological factors, and the chemistry makeup of the brain plays a big role in those suffering from depression. Many studies have uncovered how chemicals and differences in the brain’s structure may contribute to depression, as well as how depression can change the brain:

• Cortisol and memory. Part of the brain called the hippocampus releases the hormone cortisol when you’re stressed, which includes episodes of depression. When your brain is flooded with cortisol for long periods of time, it can slow or stop the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus. This results in the hippocampus actually shrinking in size, which in turn leads to memory problems.

• Cortisol and the amygdala. The influx of cortisol triggered by depression also causes the amygdala to enlarge. This is a part of the brain associated with emotional responses. When it becomes larger and more active, it causes sleep disturbances, changes in activity levels, and changes in other hormones.

• Brain inflammation. It isn’t yet clear whether inflammation is a trigger for depression or depression causes inflammation. But, studies clearly show a link, that people with depression have more inflammation in the brain.

        One study specifically found that people who have struggled with depression for more than ten years have 30

        percent more inflammation. Brain inflammation can worsen depression, interfere with neurotransmitters that

        regulate mood, and negatively impact learning and memory.

• Hypoxia. Hypoxia (reduced oxygen), has also been linked with depression. The result of the brain not getting adequate amounts of oxygen can include inflammation and injury to and death of brain cells. In turn, these changes in the brain impact learning, memory, and mood.

The Toll Depression Takes On the Body

Depression is much more than just a brain disorder. It causes many physical symptoms, and can cause lasting damage to the body because of both direct effects and indirect complications of living with this mental illness. For example, depression often leads to major sleeping issues, changes in appetite, can lead to body aches and pains, complicate other physical conditions, and significantly impact ones quality of life physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually.

Chronic pain is often a common complaint for many people suffering from depression. Unexplained aches and pains, like headaches, back pain, or joint tenderness, can be triggered by depression. While not fully understood, it may be that depression makes you less tolerant of pain.

Living with depression puts you at risk for serious physical health conditions, including stroke and heart disease. The reason for this may be that depression triggers an overproduction of clotting factors and variation in heart rate. These are both factors that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Gastrointestinal problems is a potential complication (or cause) of depression. The gut actually has a major connection to mood and mental health and is sometimes referred to as the body’s second brain. There are important receptors in the gut and an ecosystem of bacteria, and when 'out of whack' can affect a person's mood. If you are depressed, you may experience stomach aches, indigestion, nausea, cramps, or bloating. It is always a good idea to rule out any physical conditions that may be leading to depression.

Fatigue and lack of motivation is another common symptom of depression, and one of the most consistent physical consequences of this mental health condition. This lack of energy is beyond normal tiredness. It makes you feel apathetic, irritable, and uninterested in things you might normally enjoy. Just getting out of bed in the morning can feel like a jore for many people with depression.

If you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek a thorough evaluation.