Treating Depression by Increasing the Levels of Serotonin in the Brain

You may have heard that serotonin fluctuation in the brain leads into depression. It’s possible that your brain may just not be producing enough serotonin. It may also be the case that serotonin is produced but isn’t absorbed by the brain. Serotonin may not be reaching the receptor sites. Or there may be a shortage of tryptophan—one of the chemicals which leads into the production of serotonin.

The brain is such a delicate organ that even a little bit of fluctuation of the chemicals within it can lead to great fluctuations in mood. As a result, the individual might suffer from depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and anger-related issues.

But what if you could take advantage of what we now know about serotonin and increase its levels in the brain? This would help you to treat your depression and lead a fuller and richer life. Keep in mind that serotonin levels can be increased by taking medication as well as by natural means.

WebMD states, “One theory about how depression develops centers on the regeneration of brain cells—a process that some believe is mediated by serotonin, and ongoing throughout our lives. According to Princeton neuroscientist Barry Jacobs PhD, depression may occur when there is a suppression of new brain cells and that stress is the most important precipitator of depression.”

So it could be that the regeneration of brain cells is what keeps an individual happy. And since serotonin is required for this regeneration, low levels of serotonin lead into an inadequate amount of regeneration, and eventually, depression.

Since serotonin seems to play a large role in a person’s mood, it stands to reason that increasing its levels in the brain might help to improve mood. This is where SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors come in; they are believed to help people suffering from depression. SNRIs or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors can also have a similar effect.

If you’re interested in figuring out whether you should be taking an SSRI or SNRI, you should consult your psychiatrist. There are also other, natural ways of increasing serotonin; this can be done with food, vitamins and exercise.