Depression is a serious mental illness that can have a devastating effect on people’s lives. It is estimated that around 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression. While there are many different treatments available for depression, serotonin supplements are becoming an increasingly popular option. This is because serotonin supplements help to increase levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help to prevent and treat depression. In this blog post, we will discuss the role of serotonin in depression and why serotonin supplements can help treat this condition.
SSRIs and Treatment for Depression
Clinical depression is a serious mental illness that impacts the quality of life and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that about 280 million people worldwide live with depression. People with depression experience various symptoms that affect their mood, emotions, and ability to go about their daily lives. The treatment for depression often involves multiple approaches. For example, people with depression might utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them work through perceptions and thought patterns, or other forms of talking therapy, including counseling and psychotherapy. Other lifestyle changes can also be considered.
Treatment may also include using antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs increase levels of serotonin in the body.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that may impact people’s moods and behaviors, and SSRIs can be effective in treating symptoms of depression.
Mental Health Associated With Low Serotonin
The review examined data from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and large database studies. Researchers did not include animal studies or studies that focused on depression sub-types such as postpartum depression or depression in people with specific physical conditions, such as Parkinson’s.
Their research included 17 studies in their analysis. In one-meta analysis, there was weak evidence that low levels of tryptophan might affect people with family histories of depression.
Tryptophan lowers the amount of serotonin available. However, most of the data suggested that depression is not associated with low serotonin levels or that low serotonin levels cause depression.
Researchers also found some evidence supporting the idea that long-term antidepressant use might lower serotonin levels in the body. They note that further research is needed to look into the long-term effects of antidepressants on the body.
Limitations and Implications
The researchers were thorough in their data collection and analysis methods. However, they note that their review still has several limitations. For example, they point out that some of the non-genetic studies included did not take into account the impact of previous antidepressant use and had small sample sizes.
Their ability to analyze components like confounding was limited based on what was done in the studies, and some data were older, indicating the need for further research.
The data available suggest that low serotonin levels do not cause depression. However, this does not mean that doctors will stop utilizing antidepressants as a treatment option. Instead, it calls for more research about why antidepressants work the way they do.
Furthermore, the research may impact how people view the use of antidepressants. People may come to view antidepressants more as part of a comprehensive approach to treatment rather than a “fix.”
Prof. Moncrieff explained that “many people have been told that their mood problems are due to a chemical imbalance and that they need antidepressants to put them right.”
“This,” she suggested, “has probably contributed to the escalating use of antidepressants over the last three decades. People should be informed that this has not been established, so they can make more informed decisions about whether to use antidepressants.”
Natural Ways to Help With Depression
If you are interested in pursuing natural ways to help with depression, there are many options available. Some people might choose to try supplements that contain serotonin, such as SAM-e or St. John’s Wort.
It’s important to speak with a doctor before starting any new supplement, as they can interact with other medications.
Other lifestyle changes that might help include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.
CBT and other forms of therapy can also be beneficial.
Depression is a complex condition, and treatment will vary from person to person. However, there are many options available for those who wish to pursue natural methods of treatment.
Thanks for reading and as always surround yourself with a great support system.