Did you know that depression can cause brain damage?

Did you know that depression can cause brain damage?

Depression is a common mental health issue experienced by many people, but it should not be regarded merely as a mood problem. Recent studies emphasize that depression can actually cause damage to the brain. When depression persists over a long period, it can affect specific parts of the brain, particularly the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex, impairing their functions.

The hippocampus plays a crucial role in storing and processing memories, and research has shown that persistent depression can lead to a reduction in its size or weaken the connections between neurons. As a result, it can affect not only simple memory decline but also concentration, learning ability, and problem-solving skills.

The frontal lobe plays a crucial role in regulating our emotions and assisting with decision-making. The impact of depression on this area can weaken emotional regulation abilities and potentially lead to impulsive or negative decisions. Such brain changes can result in not only short-term feelings of depression and stress but also long-term brain damage and decreased brain function associated with depression.

Furthermore, the progression from depression to brain damage is not merely one of the symptoms of depression but is closely related to neurochemical changes. Depression causes an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which disrupts communication between nerve cells and negatively impacts overall brain function.

For this reason, depression should not be left untreated, and receiving appropriate early treatment is important. Medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychological therapy can play a crucial role in preventing or alleviating depression-related brain damage caused by depression. In fact, studies show that when depression-related brain damage is properly treated, there is a possibility that the structure and function of the brain can recover.