3 Major Hormones That Can Cause Depression

Feeling a bit down lately? While all of us have our ups and downs, a prolonged feeling of malaise may indicate some unusual changes in your body chemistry.

In this article, we will talk about three of the hormones that could cause depression, as well as some ways you can try to regulate it.

The Hormones That Play a Role in Causing Depression

Cortisol

According to Dina Aronson, MS, RD, this hormone is responsible for regulating your energy by choosing which kind of substrate to use, as well as how much of it should be consumed. If you cortisol levels are too high or too low, you may begin to experience depression.

Low levels of cortisol have been linked to excessive fatigue, difficulty handling stressful situations, an unpredictable and unstable mood, and a drop in your sex drive.

depression
Why is depression such a taboo in our society? – image source: techandfacts.com

Estrogen

If you have low levels of serotonin, this may cause you to be more susceptible to depression. Barry Jacobs, PhD, a neuroscientist from Princeton, says that this may be because low serotonin suppresses the production of new brain cells, causing unnecessary stress. In addition, it also boosts your endorphin levels, helping you feel better, as well as raise your GABA, a neurotransmitter that is linked to feelings of calmness.

Progesterone

Progesterone assists in balancing the levels of estrogen in your body. It can also contribute to better sleeping patterns, and can help you feel calmer. If your progesterone levels aren’t balanced, you may end up being irritable or unable to fall asleep at night, two effects which could be symptoms of depression.

Simples Tips for Fighting Off Depression

Get Enough Sunlight

See if you can hang around outdoors for at least fifteen minutes each day as exposing yourself to natural light may help boost your mood. This is because sunlight has been associated with increased levels of serotonin.

Get Enough Exercise

Research shows that regular exercise can help boost your energy levels, making you feel less fatigued. This is because physical activity can release helpful hormones such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. Even walking for at least 30 minutes a day can dramatically improve your mood, so take some time out to get your leg muscles moving.

Get Enough Sleep

Not getting the right amount of rest can contribute to your feelings of fatigue. If you are having trouble falling asleep, you can take simple over-the-counter supplements such as melatonin. You can also try meditative techniques such as yoga to help you relax enough to comfortably fall asleep at a reasonable time.

The next time you seem to be feeling blue for too long, you at least have a better idea of what may be going on inside your body and how you can get your hormones under control.

About author:
This article was contributed to healthiack.com by a guest author.

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