We typically think of depression as mainly a psychological problem with symptoms like sadness, irritability, pessimism, lack of motivation, and anxiety. These are certainly important aspects of depression, but if an episode of depression persists long enough, it may cause physical changes in the brain. Here are some of the effects depression has on the brain.
Inflammation
Recent studies have found a strong correlation between depression and inflammation. One study found that people with depression had 30 percent higher levels of C-reactive proteins, a common marker of inflammation. Other studies have found that the areas of the brain associated with depression, such as the prefrontal cortex, also show the most inflammation. It’s not yet clear whether the inflammation causes depression or the other way around. What is clear is that if depression goes untreated for long enough, inflammation can cause the brain to shrink. Studies have found that people who have had depression for more than 10 years have significantly more inflammation.
Shrinking
Several factors can cause a part of the brain to shrink. Some of these factors are stress, inflammation, and inactivity. Several key parts of the brain may shrink after a long period of depression. One of these areas is the hippocampus, a part of the brain involved in turning short term memories into long term memories. The dentate gyrus in the hippocampus is one of the only parts of the brain that still produces neurons in adults. Stress from depression can slow the growth of new neurons, causing the hippocampus to shrink and leading to the memory problems that are often associated with depression. The prefrontal cortex has also been found to shrink in prolonged depression. The prefrontal cortex is associated with executive functions such as emotional regulation, self-control, planning, and attention. The left prefrontal cortex is often underactive in people with depression, which can allow that part of the brain to atrophy.
Expanding
Expanding brain areas can also be a problem. Studies have shown that patients with depression often have an enlarged amygdala. The amygdala is important for emotional processing and is central in the fight-or-flight response. It becomes overactive in people with depression and PTSD, causing it to expand. This causes the patient to feel more stress, further strengthening the amygdala. Unfortunately, the amygdala isn’t very smart. It relies on the hippocampus to accurately identify threats, while the prefrontal cortex helps to moderate emotional reactions. However, as we’ve seen, these parts of the brain shrink after prolonged depression, giving the amygdala far too much influence. This is what causes the sleep disruptions, anxiety, and irritability common in depression.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or depression, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
