Psych Central reportson new researchthat maylead to a change indrug treatment for depression in the near future, focusing on a different kind of neurotransmitter instead of serotonin, norepinephrineand dopamine.
The emerging opinion has scientists interested in a group of brain chemicals that are involved in virtually all of our brain activity. The study shows that compared to healthy individuals, people who have major depressive disorder have altered functions of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).
Researchers believe an individualized approach to diagnosing depression, one that would include testing to identify low levels of the GABA neurotransmitters, could dramatically improve depression treatment.
Research has also found that GABA may be a culprit in the development of postpartum depression. In 2008, I shared with you the results of research done at UCLA finding that dysregulation of proteins called GABA receptors on the surface of certain neurons in the brain may bring on mood disorders after birth ranging frompostpartum depressionto postpartum psychosis.
So we'll have to see what comes of this, but in the meantime (and only those of you whose children watch Nick Jr. will get this), I say "Yo-GABA-GABA!"
My own experience with GABA enhancing drugs like benzodiazepines makes me think this new research is definitely a move in the right direction. I found these drugs extremely useful during my worst, most dysphoric moments. They were especially helpful in quieting my intrusive thoughts. Unfortunately, they can be addictive and dangerous, but under the supervision of a professional they can also be lifesaving. I just wrote about this too in my new blog! (check it out if you’re interested: http://www.reflectionondepression.typepad.com