If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. There is help. There is hope. Don’t give up. Your life is worth living.
Depression is a globally experienced mental health disorder and symptom. At once, depression is its own disorder and can be the symptom of many other mental health disorders, including trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD. Major depression can be comorbid with PTSD, causing an array of emotional disturbances and issues to those living with the combination.
Suicide is a difficult but necessary subject to discuss, particularly when it comes to both depression and PTSD. Veterans are often at the forefront of such conversations because of the alarmingly high rates of suicide in veterans experiencing PTSD, many of whom are either experiencing symptoms of depression, or a full development of co-occurring depression as well.
Though suicide is commonly associated with depression, it is not always depression that causes suicide. However, new research has revealed that the connection between major depressive disorder and suicide may be more closely linked than previously before due to inflammation.
Biological Psychiatry published a study conducted by the University of Manchester which tested various biomarkers of inflammation in the brains of people clinically diagnosed with depression. Some of the study participants had occurrences of suicidal thoughts and suicidal ideation, which can occur with depression. Significantly, findings of the study discovered that such patients had higher levels of TSPO, translocator protein, which is related to inflammation of the brain.
Microglia are immune cells in the brain. When these cells are activated, it is a sign of brain inflammation. High levels of TSPO activate the microglia which then causes the inflammation. For depression and trauma treatment, the findings are important.
Increasingly, the modern medical world is moving away from blanket treatments and moving toward individualized treatment programs. Though residential treatment facilities have been offering individualized care for some time, the modern medical world is starting to catch up. Anti-inflammatory treatments like medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes, could improve depression symptoms on a cellular level, decreasing suicidal thoughts and suicidal ideations.
If you are struggling with depression and PTSD, there is help available. Do not give up hope. You will find freedom. You will have peace. Recovery from trauma is possible. The Guest House in Ocala, Florida, is a premiere residential treatment program for trauma, addictions, and other related issues. Our comprehensive clinical program operates a concierge-style approach, meeting the specific needs of each resident. Call us today for information:1-352-812-2780