There may be good news for emetophobic people who also suffer from depression. At Stanford University, the School of Medicine is working on finding a way to treat depression. The researchers propose that melanocortin, a hormone that essentially “turns off” the brain’s ability to signal pleasure, may be responsible for the major symptom of depression (i.e. anhedonia, being unable to feel pleasure). Melanocortin is increased by long-term stress, which could explain why chronic anxiety often seen in phobic people can lead to depression.
So far, the results are looking promising. With further research, new methods for treating depression or depressed mood may be discovered. Follow the link to read more about the science behind anhedonia and the effects of melanocortin.
Potential target for treating depression identified – International News Network
Zee NewsPotential target for treating depression identifiedInternational News NetworkRobert Malenka, MD, PhD, the Nancy Friend Pritzker Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, is the senior author of the new study, which reveals a novel drug …
