Is "low serotonin" the main cause of depression? Medication has limited effect? Study: Patients may become "more pessimistic the more they eat"
For a long time, academic circles have generally believed that the imbalance and deficiency of “serotonin” in the brain may be one of the main causes of mental illnesses, such as depression. However, so far, no research has been able to confirm whether this argument is true. A study published in “Molecular Psychiatry”, a subsidiary publication of the authoritative journal “Nature” in July, even claimed that there is “no correlation” between depression and serotonin concentration, overturning the public’s common understanding of depression.
Serotonin levels not linked to depression? Study: Drugs may make patients ‘mood worse’
A team from University College London in the UK conducted a meta-analysis by searching 361 publications on previous research on serotonin and depression, and initially found that depression is not caused by “serotonin imbalance” in the brain. They said that most antidepressant drugs are made of “selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors” (SSRIs), but in this study, there was no evidence to support that the recovery from depression is related to SSRI drugs.
Dr. Joanna Moncrieff, the lead author of the study, said that based on the analysis results, SSRI drugs may only provide a “comfort effect.” The famous psychology journal “Psychiatry” also pointed out that one of the side effects of SSRI drugs is “emotional apathy”, which paralyzes the brain. Emotional function receptors, making the individual unable to feel any emotions. Dr. Moncrieff points out that this effect may be the main reason why people with depression feel healed.
In addition, the research team also found evidence from a large meta-analysis that drug users have lower blood serotonin levels: long-term use of antidepressant drugs may be the cause of lower serotonin concentrations. This means that antidepressant drugs are not only difficult to achieve the effect, but may even cause compensatory changes in the brain, which in the long run will make patients more pessimistic and have the opposite effect.
“As many as 85-90% of the public believe that depression is caused by low serotonin levels or chemical imbalances in the brain. Our research suggests that the framework between the two is oversimplified.” Dr. Moncrieff said, Psychology The academic and medical circles should re-examine the main causes of depression and find ways to actively treat it. Until then, more research is needed to confirm the relationship between serotonin and depression.
What are the causative factors of depression? You need to be more vigilant when encountering “6 events” in life
If depression is not caused by a serotonin imbalance, what are the possible factors that may contribute to the patient’s illness? Guidelines published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that the exact cause of depression is still unclear and may be caused by a combination of genetics, biological responses, environmental and psychological factors. The causes of depression are different for everyone, but each of the following factors may increase the chance of suffering from depression:
A direct blood relative has suffered from depression.
Experiencing a traumatic or stressful event, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death of a loved one, or financial problems.
Experiencing major life changes, such as original plans being interrupted and interfered with by various factors.
Suffering from various medical conditions such as cancer, stroke, or chronic pain.
Take certain medications. If you have any doubts about whether a drug causes depression, you should consult your doctor for clarification.
Use of alcohol or addictive substances.
The U.S. CDC states that if you have been feeling sad or anxious recently, can’t get excited about things, have changed your routine, or even have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, you should seek psychological treatment or a psychiatrist in time and receive treatment through psychological consultation or prescription. . In addition, patients should maintain a regular schedule, try to exercise, and avoid the use of alcohol and nicotine, which can help improve the condition. Connecting with family and friends and sharing your thoughts can also have certain benefits for your physical and mental health.
Source:
Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety
The serotonin theory of depression: a systematic umbrella review of the evidence
No evidence that depression is caused by low serotonin levels, finds comprehensive review
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