Depression results when brain chemicals also known as neurotransmitters are out of balance.

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that relay signals between nerve cells, called “neurons”.  They are present throughout the body and are required for proper brain and body functions.  Serious health problems, including depression and anxiety, can occur when neurotransmitter levels are too high or too low.

Every neurotransmitter behaves differently.  Some neurotransmitters are inhibitory and tend to calm, while others are excitatory and stimulate the brain.  Deficiencies involving the central nervous system’s neurotransmitters – serotonin and norepinephrine – appear to be involved in the development of depressive disorders.  Disruptions of other neurotransmitters, like GABA and glycine, have been more closely linked to anxiety disorders.

Environmental and biological factors including:

• Stress
• Poor diet
• Neurotoxins
• Genetics

Can cause imbalances in the levels of neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain.  These imbalances can trigger and exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Depressive disorders are among the most common neurotransmitter-related  conditions.  Others include anxiety disorders, compulsive behaviors, insomnia,  and migraines.

There are a few company’s who offer neurotransmitter testing, a simple urine test.  However conventional medicine does not see the validity in this type of testing.  I can tell you from experience with my own clients the testing and treatment protocols do work.  This is especially helpful for those who do not get relief with antidepressant medication.

Coming soon further learning about neurotransmitter testing and how it can benefit you.

Depression is just plain awful!  If you take medication for depression and feel your not getting better here are some depression tips to consider that your doctor might not know about.

There are many causes of depression.  Hopefully your doctor has tested you for thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism (low thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid, graves disease), hormone changes like menopause and adrenal problems.

Prolonged stress, nutritional deficiencies, and imbalances of brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine also cause depression.  Have you been checked for any of these?

If you suffer from depression and are not getting good results from any medication you are taking here are a few guidelines to help you.

• Blood work to rule out thyroid disorder
• B vitamin supplement
• Stress management
• Urine test for brain chemical levels
• Exercise of some sort is a must, walking, etc. force yourself get out and move.  Exercise releases the feel good chemicals and can really do wonders to help.

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