RSD and Depression

These notes are taken from RSD Websites and medical articles which shed light on why RSD can lead to depression and information on treatment. Grateful acknowledgement is given to all sources. The extracts have been arranged in an order that presents a theoretical explanation for RSD induced depression. The author has seen the effects first hand within his own family.

Dealing with Depression
Recent studies have shown that imbalances in serotonin levels trigger depression. Doctors often treat patients with serotonin reuptake inhibitors because these medications can help to regulate serotonin levels.

It is the role that serotonin plays in depression that perhaps is of most interest.  People with depression have measurable 'imbalances' in the brain's neurotransmitters; low levels of serotonin are believed to play a critical role.

A change in your serotonin level, this can have an effect on your pain threshold too. Because serotonin helps keep 'pain gates' closed, a lack of it can make you feel more pain. 

Serotonin also helps with sleep, which explains the sleep disturbance encountered by those with depression.

This also explains why people can get such immediate relief from drugs - serotonin is so strongly involved in sleep regulation, pain perception and mood that an increase can have a huge effect. The danger of course, is becoming dependent on drugs instead of tackling the root cause of the depression. Research indicates that the best way to elevate serotonin levels is to stimulate the body to produce more serotonin. 

In clinical trials increased Serotonin has been shown to give: moderate and control depression, moderate and control eating disorders, relieve pain & migraines, Ease stress and tension, improve immune function, improve blood vessel tone, improved sleep.

                                                                                                            Therapy Website

People suffering from depression are thought to have lower levels of some of the chemical messengers in the brain, called neurotransmitters. The three neurotransmitters believed to be involved in depression are serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Neurons in the brain constantly produce, release, and reabsorb these brain chemicals. Antidepressants increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain by blocking their reabsorption. In a moderate to severe depression, medications may be useful in the short term, but should be accompanied by therapy to address underlying issues.

                                                                                                               HELPGUIDE.org

© Tim Anderson 2007