Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and a range of additional emotional and physical problems. It affects the way a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. Depression is more than just a temporary mood fluctuation or a sign of weakness; it is a complex mental health disorder that can stem from a variety of causes, including genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, environmental triggers, and psychological sources. Symptoms can vary but often include a persistent sad or anxious mood, feelings of hopelessness, irritability, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, fatigue, concentration difficulties, and changes in sleep and appetite. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both, and increasingly, lifestyle interventions like exercise and nutrition are recognized as valuable components of a comprehensive treatment plan. Recognizing depression and seeking help is crucial because, with effective treatment, most people with depression can overcome it and lead healthy, balanced lives.
A recent study indicates that bupropion is associated with less weight gain compared to other popular antidepressants, such as sertraline, providing valuable insight for patients…
Researchers at the Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) have found significant correlations between age, sex, and BMI, and the frequency of bowel movements. Everybody poops,…
A new study reveals that misinformation about depression, perpetuated by health organizations like WHO and the American Psychiatric Association, hinders public understanding of mental health….
New research has identified beta frequency activity in the brain’s anterior cingulate cortex as key to how rewards influence behavior, linking it to potential new…
Magnetic stimulation therapy could aid patients who don’t respond to antidepressants. Scientists from the University of Helsinki and Stanford University are refining techniques that may…
Recent research highlights sex differences in brain pathways linked to reward behaviors, showing distinct molecular mechanisms in males and females that could influence the treatment…
Researchers at EPFL have effectively tested a new method that allows for deep exploration of the human brain without the need for surgery, with potential…
The serotonin-boosting actions of antidepressants are essential and relieve depression by restoring normal communication and connections in the brain. New research highlights that SSRIs and…
Study suggests heart rate may be a useful tool to determine where to stimulate the brains of individuals with depressive disorders when brain scans aren’t…
A Stanford Medicine study reveals six subtypes of depression, identified through brain imaging and machine learning. These subtypes exhibit unique brain activity patterns, helping predict…
Expectations contribute to symptoms following discontinuation of antidepressants. How difficult is it to stop taking antidepressants? If countless Internet posts and multiple scientific studies are…
Research indicates that long-term depression from young adulthood negatively impacts cognitive function by middle age, with greater effects seen in black adults, possibly explaining some…
About 15% of individuals stopping antidepressants face discontinuation symptoms, with severe cases in 3%. This data, from a review of 79 trials, highlights the potential…
Recent research highlights a genetic contribution to treatment-resistant depression, linking it with several health disorders and suggesting new treatment possibilities based on shared genetic factors….
Groundbreaking research identifies key molecular differences in PTSD and depression, paving the way for novel treatments. Stress-related disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and…
New research explores how ketamine’s effects on single neurons contribute to significant alterations in the functioning of brain networks. Ketamine, recognized as an Essential Medicine…
A recent study published in JMIR Mental Health highlights the promising potential of virtual reality (VR) in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). Led by Dr….
Scientists have clarified the connection between energy levels and fertility in both animals and humans. The researchers, from Nagoya University in Japan, discovered that signaling…