Your Depression May Have Roots in Childhood Experience

We see it all the time in addiction treatment – some sort of pain or trauma is a trigger for addiction and co-occurring disorders, such as depression. Now researchers have indicated in a breakthrough study that children who suffer abuse are at significant risk of suffering from depression, particularly if they are genetically predisposed to the disease.

How did the study work? Yahoo reports:

Over a three-year period, scientists analyzed patients from 41 different health clinics in seven Spanish provinces who ranged in age from 18 to 75. And here’s what they discovered through genetic testing: The participants who were shown to have limited gene function implied in both BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein-coding gene) and serotonin transmission were extra-sensitive to the damaging effects of child abuse — whether the abuse was psychological, physical or sexual. In other words, this particular lack of gene activity mixed with an abusive history can result in an increased risk for suffering from depression.

Depression is a leading cause of human suffering. According to the World Health Organization:

Depression is a common illness worldwide, with an estimated 350 million people affected. Depression is different from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived emotional responses to challenges in everyday life. Especially when long-lasting and with moderate or severe intensity, depression may become a serious health condition. It can cause the affected person to suffer greatly and function poorly at work, at school and in the family. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. Suicide results in an estimated 1 million deaths every year.

Depression and addiction co-occurring together is common. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that at least 10 million people in the United States suffer from both substance abuse and addiction. Thus, there is significant need for research into the connections between these two disorders.

If you suffer from addiction or depression, seek help. There are many whole health therapies that are proven effective in treating these disorders when they occur separately or together.

https://www.yahoo.com/health/the-number-one-cause-of-depression-everywhere-116497956847.html

https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs369/en/

https://www.dpt.samhsa.gov/comor/Co-occuring.aspx

When you recognize harmful patterns and seek treatment, you can increase your chances of leading a healthier life. Cliffside Malibu is here to support you in your search for an alcohol-free life. We believe you deserve to have a private, comfortable and luxurious environment as you navigate your journey to a sober life. Our center allows you to explore your mental health needs, creates a treatment plan that is unique to you and allows you to discover beneficial coping skills. To learn more about alcohol treatment at Cliffside Malibu, call (855) 403-5641.