How Does Stress Lead to Depression?
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Definition of Depression
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Defined by the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER), depression "is a medical illness that involves the mind and body." Stress affects the physical body as well as emotional and mental health. Scientists have found that alterations in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland areas of the brain may play a role in stress-caused mental and emotional problems. Although genetics is believed to also play a role in depression, chronic stress puts certain individuals at risk. Some personalities and temperaments are naturally more sensitive to stress, and their reactions and responses put them at an increased risk for stress-related psychological problems and illnesses such as depression.
How Stress Works
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The American Psychological Association (APA) says stress is "the pattern of specific and nonspecific responses an organism makes to stimulus events that disturb its equilibrium and tax or exceed its ability to cope." When the brain recognizes stress signals, it prepares the body for a response. The nervous system is called on to respond and releases hormones that alert the senses, raise body pulse and respiration, and tense muscles. These responses are the body's way of dealing with danger, as seen in the "fight or flight" response. In that respect, stress is a good thing. It can also spur action resulting in completion of a necessary task. When stress is chronic, however, the body can become worn down from constant assaults on its biological systems and mental functions. Recent studies suggest that unresolved stress can lead to psychological disorders.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of depression and stress often overlap. Signs of depression include fatigue, appetite changes, restlessness/irritability, and headaches or digestive problems. These symptoms are seen in stressed patients as well. In today's fast-paced society and global business economy, many workers experience job-related stress. Over time, job-related stress can compromise a body's mental abilities. This can lead to on-the-job problems, which only intensify the stress. Chronic disease like longterm or persistent depression can take a while to develop. It is difficult for doctors to blame job-related stress for depression symptoms. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) recommends a thorough physical examination to determine whether a patient's troubles stem from short-term stress or a more serious depressive disorder.
Decreasing Stress
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Treatment choice for depression depends on diagnosis and on the symptoms' severity. If a medical care provider determines that a patient's depression is stress-related, treatment may include relaxation techniques such as physical exercise, meditation, and yoga, or psychotherapy. Medication may also be prescribed.
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References
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