- Depression: The Invisible Disease
By The National Institute
of Mental Health
Recent Research Findings
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- Modern brain imaging technologies
are revealing that in depression, neural circuits responsible
for moods, thinking, sleep, appetite, and behavior fail to function
properly, and that the regulation of critical neurotransmitters
is impaired. Genetics research indicates that vulnerability to
depression results from the influence of multiple genes acting
together with environmental factors.
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Studies of brain chemistry, mechanisms
of action of antidepressant medications, and the cognitive distortions
and disturbed interpersonal relationships commonly associated
with depression, continue to inform the development of new and
better treatments. The hormonal system that regulates the body's
response to stress - the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)
axis - is overactive in many patients with depression. The hypothalamus,
the brain region responsible for managing hormone release from
glands throughout the body, increases production of a substance
called corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) when a threat to
physical or psychological well-being is detected. Elevated levels
and effects of CRF lead to increased hormone secretion by the
pituitary and adrenal glands which prepares the body for defensive
action. The body's responses include reduced appetite, decreased
sex drive, and heightened alertness. Research suggests that persistent
overactivation of this hormonal system may lay the groundwork
for depression. |
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The elevated CRF levels detectable
in depressed patients are reduced by treatment with antidepressant
drugs, and this reduction corresponds to improvement in depressive
symptoms.
Quick Fact: Major depression
often begins between ages 15-30 or even earlier.
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