ASAPScience Explores the Biological Causes of Depression

In “The Science of Depression“, ASAPScience uses animation to explain and explore various scientific theories around the biological causes of depression and how certain medications work to alleviate the symptoms, although perhaps not for the reason they were originally intended.

When we look at the brain of a depressed person, studies show that the hippocampus tends to be much smaller than average…the longer a person has been depressed the smaller the hippocampus becomes. The cells and networks literally deteriorate…Interestingly, many modern drugs, including those which affect serotonin levels, have an indirect effect on the growth of brain cells. This is why serotonin-based drugs seem to help some patients, but not for the reasons we once thought. Instead, they promote the release of other chemicals that ultimately stimulate neurogenesis, the growth of new neurons.

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.