Depression
Not a character flaw. Depression is a complex biological condition, not just "being sad." It involves neurotransmitter imbalances, brain inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut-brain disruption, and often nutrient deficiencies. The "chemical imbalance" story is oversimplified—depression has many potential root causes that can be addressed.
Beyond "Chemical Imbalance"
Inflammation
Cytokines cross blood-brain barrier. Inflamed body = inflamed brain. Depression as inflammatory condition.
Gut-Brain Axis
90% of serotonin made in gut. Dysbiosis affects mood. Probiotics can help depression.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Brain is energy-hungry. Poor cellular energy = depression. CoQ10, B vitamins help.
Nutrient Deficiencies
B12, folate, D, iron, zinc, omega-3s. All needed for neurotransmitter production.
Thyroid/Hormones
Hypothyroid causes depression. Cortisol dysregulation. Sex hormone imbalances.
HPA Axis Dysfunction
Chronic stress exhausts system. Cortisol stays high, then crashes. Burnout.
Types of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder
- Duration: 2+ weeks of symptoms
- Symptoms: Sadness, anhedonia, sleep/appetite changes
- Severity: Impairs daily functioning
- Episodes: Can be single or recurrent
Other Forms
- Dysthymia: Chronic low-grade (2+ years)
- Seasonal (SAD): Winter pattern, light-related
- Postpartum: After childbirth, hormonal
- Bipolar: Depression alternates with mania
Root Cause Approaches
Test, Don't Guess
Thyroid panel, B12, folate, vitamin D, iron, inflammatory markers. Find deficiencies.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Remove processed foods, sugar, seed oils. Add omega-3s. Mediterranean pattern.
Gut Healing
Probiotics, fermented foods, address SIBO. Fix gut, improve mood.
Light Exposure
Morning sunlight. Light therapy boxes. Especially for SAD.
Exercise
As effective as antidepressants in studies. Raises BDNF, reduces inflammation.
Key Supplements
Omega-3s, vitamin D, SAMe, methylfolate, B12. Address specific deficiencies.