Question

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, over 20% of Americans are diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression (2018). As we learn about the nervous system this module, we can use these two common disorders to help gain an understanding of basic nerve function.

For your discussion post, choose either depression or anxiety and answer the following questions. Remember to use your own words when explaining these concepts.

• How does depression/anxiety affect neurotransmitters?
• How does depression/anxiety affect synapses?
• How does depression/anxiety affect neuron function?

In your reply posts, share how various treatments may improve the physiology of the disorders discussed. Since these are common disorders, you may choose to share personal experiences. If so, keep the information you share confidential and do not share names or identifying information of others.

Answer 1

a) Depression shows problems or imbalances in the brain with regard to the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

b)There will be a decrease in neuronal synapses in these areas of brain regions that regulate mood and cognition, including the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus.

c) long-term exposure to increased cortisol levels can slow the production of new neurons and cause the neurons in the hippocampus to shrink.and also causes the amygdala to enlarge. Usually this is a part of the brain associated with emotional responses and when it becomes larger and more active, it causes sleep disturbances, changes in activity levels, and changes in other hormones.

d) Treatment includes therapies which include like cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamictherapy and medications like Anti depressants and medical procedures like electroconvulsive therapy. Treatment is based on the severity.

Hope this helps you.Thank you?