If you have been reading up on depression you‘ll be aware that the exact cause for the disorder is yet to be found. Despite its prevalence, medical researchers are still baffled as to the exact origin and reason why it materializes in a person. There is strong evidence to suggest however, that the closest link to the condition is a series of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are responsible of transmitting “messages” among the neurons in the brain. This can certainly justify that inadequate levels or improperly functioning neurotransmitters can cause haywire in the brain in terms of perception and function. There are numerous neurotransmitters involved with depression and this article will focus on the most important ones.
What neurotransmitters are involved in depression?
- Serotonin
Serotonin is known to be the most responsible in terms of neurotransmitters and depression. Serotonin is responsible for an array of functions most importantly being the mood and perception of a person. Inadequate levels of the neurotransmitters assuredly affect a person’s mood and influence the possibility of a person developing the disorder. Most treatments for the condition work as serotonin reuptake inhibitors which allow the neurotransmitter to carry out its function more effectively. Serotonin is also responsible for several other mental disorders.
- Epinephrine
Epinephrine is the next neurotransmitter that is commonly associated with the condition. it is more commonly known as adrenaline and it is responsible for regulating heart rate and blood pressure. Treatments focus on reducing the effect of these neurotransmitter which in turn lowers blood pressure and heart rate making the person feel more calm and relaxed.
- Dopamine
Another one of the depression neurotransmitters that is responsible for the disorder but isn’t frequently referred to as a serious neurotransmitter responsible for depression is dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for numerous positive effects and perceptions in the mind such as pleasure and desire but also regulates other key aspects such as memory. Medications are usually prescribed to increase levels of dopamine which will in turn make the person more positive and content in general.
These are three of the primary neurotransmitters associated with the condition however there are numerous other components that may contribute in combination to the development of the disorder. Besides neurotransmitters, various other external and internal factors can govern the possibility of a person developing the condition which is what makes depression very complex and difficult to diagnose.
