Biology of depression
When you feel sad, it's because your brain is sending out signals that make you feel that way. Depression is a really bad case of feeling sad and down, and can make it harder to do things you normally enjoy.
Inside your brain, there are special chemicals called neurotransmitters that help send messages to different parts of your brain. One of these neurotransmitters is called serotonin, and it helps regulate your mood, appetite, and sleep.
When someone is depressed, they might not have enough serotonin in their brain, which can cause them to feel really down and even affect their appetite and sleep.
Depression can also have a genetic component, meaning it might be more likely for someone to experience depression if it runs in their family.
Other factors like stress or a traumatic event can also trigger depression, and it's important to talk to a doctor or therapist if you feel like you might be going through something like this. There are treatments like therapy and medication that can help regulate those neurotransmitters and get someone feeling better.
Inside your brain, there are special chemicals called neurotransmitters that help send messages to different parts of your brain. One of these neurotransmitters is called serotonin, and it helps regulate your mood, appetite, and sleep.
When someone is depressed, they might not have enough serotonin in their brain, which can cause them to feel really down and even affect their appetite and sleep.
Depression can also have a genetic component, meaning it might be more likely for someone to experience depression if it runs in their family.
Other factors like stress or a traumatic event can also trigger depression, and it's important to talk to a doctor or therapist if you feel like you might be going through something like this. There are treatments like therapy and medication that can help regulate those neurotransmitters and get someone feeling better.
Related topics others have asked about: