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Depression, Rumination and The Brain

by Dr. Sarah Allen
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Depression, Rumination & The Brain

The findings of a new study improve our understanding of depression in young adults and could lead to new ways to predict, prevent and treat the illness. It’s not only teens and young adults that get depressed of course but new brain research shows that it might start in the way the brain has developed. This has important implications about whether it is best to start depression treatment sooner rather than later in order to prevent the development of chronic depression symptoms.

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago conducted brain scans on 30 volunteers, ages 18 to 23, who had depression in their teen years, and a control group of 23 young adults who never had depression and found that young adults who struggled with depression in adolescence appear to have “hyper-connected” networks in their brain.

What does hyper-connectivity mean?

When regions of the brains in those with a history of depression were hyper-connected, it means that the regions “communicate” with each other a bit too much. This hyper-connectivity is related to rumination, in which a person constantly thinks about a problem without actively attempting to find a solution.

When people ruminate, they over-think and obsess about situations or life events, such as work or relationships. They go over the same thing in their mind again and again and again. Most importantly, rumination is a risk factor for depression and for re-occurrence of depression if you’ve had it in the past. Ruminating or over-thinking events that have already happened isn’t just a waste of time (since it rarely achieves any more new insights on the matter), it can also become harmful as it amplifies negative emotions and increases feelings of stress.

This study is important as it increases our awareness of how our brain structure influences our moods. I find that Cognitive therapy is a really useful treatment for both rumination and depression and if we can provide prevention and treatment to teens most at risk, it might be possible to either prevent their depression, reduce the number of depressive episodes, or reduce their severity.

“If we can help youth learn how to shift out of maladaptive strategies, such as rumination, this may protect them from developing chronic depression and help them stay well as adults,” stated study lead author Rachel Jacobs, a research assistant professor of psychiatry at UIC’s Institute for Juvenile Research.

Maybe you are a young adult now or perhaps your rumination began when you were a teen. Either way, it is best to get support rather than cope alone.

SIMPLE STEPS TO OVERCOME DEPRESSION ebookI put together this booklet with strategies I am always giving to my clients firstly, because they help and secondly, so clients can have something handy to refer to between sessions.

I am a big believer in giving handouts about the strategies we talk about during sessions because I think it is hard to remember everything. I also give new clients a folder so they will be able to keep all this information in one place. A sort of emotional health toolbox to get out and read when you need it.

Not everyone is able to come and to see me though so I decided to make these strategies available to everyone and I hope you find this booklet helpful too. I think it is a great way to get started but it is hard to do this on your own so please contact me with any questions you may have after reading it.

Add your first name and email in the box below and you will be sent the steps to download your FREE book and begin your journey to feeling better.

You've just been sent an email that contains a confirmation link. Check your SPAM/JUNK folder if you don't see it within a couple of minutes. In order to activate to receive your free booklet, click on the CONFIRM link and you will be sent a second email with the booklet. It may also be in your SPAM folder.

Please call 847 791-7722 or email me on the form below if you have any questions.

Also, I have several blog posts on my blog about depression and other issues that can affect the way you feel.

    Dr. Allen's professional license only allows her to work with clients who live in IL & FL and unfortunately does not allow her to give personalized advice via email to people who are not her clients.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Filed Under: Depression, Teens, Uncategorized

    Depression

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  • Testimonials

    When I need to refer any of my patients for talk therapy I immediately think of Dr. Allen as she is wonderful at helping people with severe and complex issues really get to the root of their problems. She is very caring and knowledgeable and I have found her extensive experience really helps people to change their lives for the better.

    Dr. Teresa PoprawskiPsychiatrist, First Chicago Neuroscience Clinic

    Dr. Allen has really helped me find my own voice. When I began therapy I would swing between being passive and doing whatever other people wanted me to do to being angry and frustrated. I have been on antidepressants for quite a few years but it wasn’t really working. Through therapy I have learned to listen to my own needs and to speak up. I used to worry that people wouldn’t like me if I didn’t agree with them but when Dr. Allen gave me the support I needed I challenged my fears. I spend a lot less time feeling angry and depressed now and I have really widened my social network. This is how I have always wanted to be but didn’t know how to get there. Dr. Allen has a very reassuring manner and makes you challenge yourself but by using small steps so you feel ready to do it. I have really come out of my shell and would recommend anyone who is feeling depressed to come and talk with her.

    Rebecca F.

    I had heard great things about Dr. Allen from a friend so I decided to try her. I have had therapy in the past as I have experienced depression for many years but this is the most productive therapy I have ever had. I have really learned a lot and felt very supported. I feel my mood has improved greatly and my depression has significantly decreased. I would definitely recommend her if you are looking for a therapist.

    Andrew S.

    Thank you so much for all the support and counsel you have given me. You have made such a positive impact on my life and I very much appreciate it. I had some very dark days when I first came in to see you but I can now enjoy my life with my husband and two kids and I am emotionally present when I am with them.

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    Thank you for all of your support. I am finally feeling so much better. I never thought I would get to such a good place in my life. Your voice and words of encouragement were extremely helpful.

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