Breaking the Cycle:of Depression
The Links Between Stress, Anxiety, Depression Stress, anxiety, and depression are interconnected mental health challenges that affect millions globally. Understanding the neural mechanisms behind these conditions provides insights into their development and potential treatments. Stress and Its Impact on the Brain Stress is the body's response to challenging or threatening situations. It activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Chronic stress results in prolonged cortisol exposure, which can damage neurons, particularly in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for memory and emotion regulation. Key Neurons Affected by Stress: Hippocampal Neurons: Chronic stress can lead to hippocampal atrophy, reducing its volume and impairing cognitive functions. Prefrontal Cortex Neurons: This area, responsible for decision-making and social behavior, also shrinks under prolonged stress. Amygdala Neurons: Unlike the hippocampu...