Most men and women who experience bodily chemical changes and fluctuations are often at higher risk for depression. In the brain, the affected chemicals are known as neurotransmitters, while in the body, these chemicals are known as hormones. When the natural chemicals in our bodies become altered, certain hormones end up taking precedence over all others and can trigger unwanted side effects. Chemical imbalance in general can lead to fatigue, mood swings, poor eating habits, lack of sleep, infertility, disease, and much more.
Researchers who specialize in the field of mood disorders have found that our neurotransmitters are directly involved with depression. When too little or too many neurotransmitters are released as a result of hormone imbalance and chemical reaction, then symptoms of depression, irritability, and mood swings can be triggered. Chemicals in our brain that have been linked to depression are dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.
When imbalanced, the other hormones in our bodies can also trigger depression by upsetting the chemical balance in our brains. These hormones include the thyroid hormones, sex hormones, and fight-or-flight hormones.
Thyroid hormones
An overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, can cause you to produce more hormones than are needed for healthy bodily function and can trigger feelings such as nervousness, anxiety, and even insomnia. On the other hand, an underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism, can result in fatigue, cognitive decline, and depression.
Sex hormones
Depression caused as a result of sex hormone imbalance is usually more common in women than in men. Research has shown that four of out every 10 women experience irritability, mood swings, and depression in the days immediately before their menstrual cycles begin. Women also tend to experience depression more severely during pregnancy, after childbirth, and throughout menopause, as well as when taking conventional birth control and hormone replacement therapy medications.
Fight-or-flight hormones
When your body experiences stress or recognizes a threat, it releases the cortisol hormone, which causes your body to be alert and on the defense. As a result, your muscles become more tense, your breathing becomes more shallow, and your senses most likely become sharper. Though this chemical reaction is a natural response to danger, experiencing fight-or-flight syndrome too frequently can cause you to experience depression on a regular basis.
Rock Creek Wellness offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help you rebalance and sustain your hormone levels. Our pellet hormone program is designed for patients seeking a quick and affordable entry to bioidentical hormone therapy in Kansas City. Contact us today at 913-727-7700 to request a free consultation.
