The following list continues from the first part of this series on the physiological contributors to depression. For instance, the list from both articles (parts one and two) makes up 20 factors that might possibly have an influence on mood. It is likely that only one or two of these might be playing a role in a teen’s physical, emotional, and psychological functioning.

Teen Depression

However, rather than attempting to determine this yourself, it might be best to seek the professional assistance of a nutritionist. He or she can assess your body’s levels and determine whether there are deficiencies that might be contributing to depression. There are some naturopathic physicians who would claim that tending to these deficiencies alone could treat depression. In addition, it is always best to keep a holistic point of view and remember to include the suggestions of your doctor, psychiatrist, and psychologist.

Infectious Diseases

Certain diseases, such as strep throat, can affect the autoimmune system and mood.

Intestinal Parasites

When there are parasites that infecting the body, particularly the intestines, symptoms can include fogginess and depression.

Lack of Exercise

Those who do not exercise are three times more likely to experience depression.

Leaky Gut Syndrome

This ailment is caused by two conditions listed here – candidiasis (part one) and intestinal parasites, and its symptoms include allergic reactions, poor absorption of food, and malnourishment.

Lifestyle

High levels of stress, smoking, and lack of exercise can lead to depression.

Low levels of neurotransmitters

Levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain will have an affect on mood and mood swings.

Malabsorption

When there is an inability to absorb certain nutrients because of deficiencies in bile acids, pancreatic enzymes, or stomach hydrochloric acid, this can affect mood and depression.

Nutritional Deficiencies

When necessary vitamins are deficient in the body, such as Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, mood.

Pharmaceutical Drugs

Certain medications are necessary for the treatment of mental illness, addiction, or physical ailments. Examples of these are antipsychotics, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, cholinergics, cortico-steroids, estrogens, levodopa, and reserpine.

PMS or Menopause

This physical chance in women can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

When the body does not receive enough sunlight, depression can be a result.

As mentioned above, it is important to consider the professional assistance of both alternative and traditional forms of medicine before making a decision about how to treat depression. This list is meant to provide a general overview and support a deeper understanding for more effective teen depression treatment. Rather than it being solely a mental illness, this series is meant to emphasize that depression has a physical facet to it. For this reason, the physiological contributors to depression listed here are for consideration purposes only.

Conclusion 

According to the World Health Organization, health is a state that includes one’s physical, mental, and social well-being. All of these facets of health should under consideration when discussing and treating depression.

Reference:

Strohecker, J & Strohecker, N. (1999). Natural healing for depression: Solutions from the world’s great health traditions and practitioners. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam, Inc.