Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Depression, Science, and Modern Medicine

Okay. I know it's been a hot minute since I last posted on my blog, but I read an article a few minutes ago that has me wondering if the scientists who are studying depression have a clue what depression really is. The article indicates the belief from a group of researchers at John D. Dingell VA Medical Centre and Wayne State University School of Medicine in Michigan that low serotonin levels may not be responsible for depression.

The article states the researchers developed mice without the ability to produce serotonin in their brains. They claim the mice show no signs of depression-like symptoms, but the article goes on to say the mice show signs of compulsive and aggressive behavior. Now, as a person who has been diagnosed with severe clinical depression, I know my depression expresses itself in the form of anger and compulsive spending. If I am not on my medication, I become aggressive, hurtful, filled with rage, and I go on spending sprees. 

I know several people who suffer from depression, and a number of them have similar symptoms to mine. They spend exorbitant amounts of money on frivolous items knowing they don't have the funds to cover the costs. They become withdrawn and quiet in an attempt to refrain from being hurtful, mean, and viciously spiteful. 

I don't claim to know everything there is to know about depression or its causes, but I know how it affects me. I know how it affects the people with whom I have discussed it. I think they need to do more research before they make claims of this kind.

Until next time,
Peace up!