Mental health and Alzheimer's disease: Here's how depression affects brain functions

Taking a comprehensive approach to mental health is necessary to prevent Alzheimer's. (Image: Canva)

The relationship between mental health and neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer's disease is increasingly becoming a focal point of research. While Alzheimer's has traditionally been linked to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, new studies suggest that mental health conditions, particularly depression, could play a significant role in its development. Alzheimer's is marked by the progressive decline of memory and cognitive functions, but the impact of depression on brain activity may be a critical risk factor.

According to Dr Gorav Gupta, CEO and Senior Psychiatrist at Tulasi Healthcare, understanding how depression affects brain function is essential in developing preventative and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's. Exploring this connection offers valuable insights into reducing the risks of cognitive decline and improving long-term brain health, emphasising the importance of addressing mental health as part of Alzheimer's prevention and care strategies.

How depression affects brain health

Depression affects the structure and function of the brain profoundly; it is more than just a mood condition. Changes in the hippocampal region of the brain, which oversees memory and learning, can result from long-term depression, says Dr Gupta. He also says that long-term depressive patients tend to have a shrinking of this area, which affects cognitive function. Moreover, elevated cortisol levels in depression are connected to oxidative stress and inflammation, two conditions that are linked to damage to brain cells. Cortisol is a stress hormone. These alterations may eventually have a role in the onset of Alzheimer's.

According to studies, people who experience depression in their middle years or later have an increased chance of Alzheimer's. This might be because depression has long-term effects on brain health, such as diminished neuroplasticity—the brain's capacity to establish new connections—and neuronal damage. In addition to these lifestyle factors, depression can also have an impact on social interaction, physical activity, and sleep—all of which are critical for preserving cognitive function.

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The link between depression and Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer's disease and depression have a complicated relationship. While some specialists think depression may be a prelude to Alzheimer's, others think it may be a cause of the illness itself. Although there is no direct link between depression and Alzheimer's disease, it is evident that maintaining mental health is essential to lowering the risk in general. Early treatment of depression can lessen its long-term consequences on the brain and lower the risk of cognitive deterioration.

Prevention strategies

Taking a comprehensive approach to mental health is necessary to prevent Alzheimer's. It's critical to manage depression with medicine, therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Maintaining social ties, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity can all have a favourable effect on mental and cognitive health, says Dr Gupta. Brain-challenging pursuits like solving puzzles and picking up new abilities can help improve brain resilience.

The connection between Alzheimer's disease and depression emphasises how crucial mental health is to halting cognitive loss. People can lower their risk of Alzheimer's and enhance general brain function by treating depression and taking action to promote mental health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your health specialist for more information.