In this blog, I will discuss depression and chemical imbalances. I will provide support with the question of whether or not depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.
New Science Alert Regarding Depression!
A scientific study has recently been conducted and led by Professor Joanna Moncrieff, surrounding depression, serotonin levels, and trauma. The research indicates that depression is not solely caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Previous studies supported the use of antidepressants to combat the biochemical relationship to depression. Antidepressants, also known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, are taken to supply the missing chemical in the brain that causes us to be depressed. Throughout decades of scientific research compiled; there has been no convincing evidence that depression is directly related to serotonin abnormalities.
Are Antidepressants Effective for Depression?
I understand that antidepressants are useful, but due to new research, I believe that “Talk Therapy” and other interventions are more effective. Political agendas have influenced the medical model we have adapted concerning depression and its origins. The old medical model has suggested that everything is a disease and should be medically treated. The new research combats this theory and affords so many individuals the opportunity to try different methods of treatment.
Depression and Childhood Trauma
What I have noticed in my career is that every client I can think of had valid reasons for their mood disturbances. No one ever showed up without a valid indication of why they were having their symptoms. They arrive with a combination of events that have taken place in their lives, especially their childhood, that have over time shifted into depression.
These events are compiled of present and past situations, childhood trauma, and other traumatic situation that alter their mental health. That is why I believe that talk therapy is so important. It is important because it encourages the unpacking of those situations and dealing with them head-on. Here at Aspire Counseling and Consulting Services, this is what we do. We’re big proponents of getting to the roots of the problems and bringing about a resolution.
How does trauma affect relationships?
Scientific research supports what many of us have always believed, people who suffer from depression can oftentimes relate it to a past situation or a traumatic experience. There are plenty of people who are not familiar with trauma. Most of us don’t recognize trauma directly impacts romantic relationships, platonic relationships, relationships with family, and most importantly marriages. For example, if I’ve been nurtured in an environment of unprotection, distrust, disbelief, doubt, or negative affirmations, insecurity typically follows as a result. Usually, If you have experienced trauma it can be difficult to properly attach within relationships.
It becomes difficult because we begin to believe the things about ourselves that ignite the insecurity, and we attempt to fit that insecure version of ourselves into relationships. Most of the studies that I have been exposed to primarily deal with childhood trauma. A few examples of childhood trauma include sexual abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse, drug abuse, and parental neglect, but the list could go on forever.
If I Have Depression, Does That Mean I Am The Problem?
Many of us avoid even looking into the root causes of our problems because we fear that it will reveal an ugly truth that maybe “I am the problem in my relationship.” We have discussed attachment in relationships, but detaching from those negative relationships is just as important. Realizing that trauma is an experience and not a lifestyle, and escaping those unhealthy relationship ties encourages the strengthening and sustainability of relationships and marriages.
Seeking counseling or talk therapy services does not always mean identifying a deep-rooted issue that you are afraid of. Sometimes it is just the first step in personal growth and actively aiming to have safe and healthy relationships.
About The Author
Choya Wise is the owner of Aspire Counseling and Consulting Services a mental health clinic in the Huntsville, Al area. As a licensed mental health professional Choya specializes in individual counseling, couples therapy, anxiety, and depression counseling. He also offers Social Work Clinical Supervision in Alabama and Anger Management Classes.
Aspire Counseling and Consulting Services is not just a one-man show. We have a team of clinicians ready to assist you with your therapy and counseling concerns. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call. I hope that this has been helpful and have a blessed day.
