Depressed? Why a Pill and Manipulating Serotonin May Not Be the Sole Solution

Did Our Whole View on Depression Just Come Undone?

A new analysis of a review of studies was recently released that created quite a stir in psychiatry. Headlines proclaimed that its conclusions officially “debunked” the whole serotonin hypothesis of depression.

However, to many in the field of mental health, the fanfare was an overdone repeat of an age-old story. In fact, many psychologists and psychiatrists had been aware for some time of various evidence that demonstrated that depression is not a simple theory with one cause.

Yet, the study remains a hot topic. It ignited a broader flame to the public that our approach to mental health, its treatments, and what is currently known about it is lacking. Specifically, our interventions are deficient in efficacy, access of care, and strong scientific validation.

In my latest article and video, I review the significance of this “hot” study and how it sheds a light on the flaws in our approach to mental health, depression, treatment, medication, and the science of psychiatry in general.

Topics include:

• The sad state of mental health in America
• The crash of the one “miracle” pill for a mental ill
• A review of the recent study, including:
  • what the media said that was true and what was exaggerated
  • what the researchers concluded that was important and got no attention
  • limitations to the study’s design, and psychology research in general
• The many brain health factors to consider for mental health
• Why mental health should never be treated solely with a single medication

Click here to learn more.

A Different Approach to Mental Health

One of the most obvious, yet ignored, aspect of depression and any psychiatric diagnosis is it is defined as a cluster of symptoms, not a disease that can be measured. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious on basing too broad conclusions on what was reported in the recent study.

Though a pill that acts on one neurochemical pathway can be helpful for some, treating mental health as a brain health issue can allow for a comprehensive, personalized approach far more helpful than suppressing a symptom or manipulating an undefined marker.

What is needed in psychiatry and psychology is an exploration of all the brain health factors related to mood and mental disorders and taking an integrative approach.

If you or someone you love is affected by mental health, empower yourself with this essential information by clicking here.

In a follow up post, I’ll be addressing the various factors that can impact mental health and depression from an integrative perspective, including where serotonin fits in. Stay tuned!