Depression tip: get some blood work done!
Depression can affect us just as much physically as it does mentally, and with it comes many side affects. It all starts with the nerves in the brain. During depression and certainly after, activity in the Amygdala (structure of the limbic system linked to anger, pleasure, fear, sexual arousal etc) high rises. Likewise the Thalamus, responsible for functional speech, behavioral reactions, movement, thinking, and learning can be affected and the list goes on. Just know beyond the everyday “cloud” of depression is the science of it all. Stress hormones impair the growth of nerve cells to the brain and make us function in a new way. The easiest way to understand these changes (without a brain scan) is through the blood! If you’re experiencing or recuperating from depression get blood work done at least twice a year (my personal suggestion). From the results you’ll be able to heal and reverse your side effects.
