Effects of Depression on the Brain

As Malaysia continues to grapple with the Covid pandemic, many are suffering in silence due to the loss of income, family pressures, and mental instability caused by prolonged periods of isolation. 

While most commonly associate depression with feelings of hopelessness and sadness, medical experts are now warning of the inner consequences depression can have on the human brain. 

Here are the four effects depression can inflict on the brain:

1. Brain shrinkage

 You may not know it, but researchers have discovered that prolonged episodes of depression can make parts of the brain to decrease significantly. This in turn affects one's emotional balance, as certain parts of the brain that have shrunk can cause one to snap without warning. 

2. Brain inflammation

The longer you linger in depressive episodes, the higher your risk for brain inflammation. While it's not clear whether depression directly causes inflammation and vice versa, there's significant data to support this linkage, where those who suffer from depression for more than 10 years have a 30% higher chance of having brain inflammation. It also damages one's memory, learning, brain development, and mood. 

3. Lack of oxygen

When brain cells don't get enough oxygen (hypoxia), it can lead to major problems like inflammation, brain cell injury, and even brain cell death. Hypoxia is commonly found in individuals who suffer in major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, 

4. Disruption of the brain's structure

Aside from adversely affecting brain cells, depression can also damage the brain's structural and connective abilities. If you suffer from depression for a minumum of 8 months, you're more likely to experience difficulties in managing your emotions, remembering things, or getting things done. 

If you're feeling down or experiencing a depressive episode, make a call to helplines such as Befrienders or reach out to trusted friends and family members and talk it over. Remember, you're not alone and we're in this together!