A recent article highlights the role stress plays in the onset of depression, which affects 15% of people. Individuals suffering from depression often experience anhedonia, which affects the ability to feel pleasure. A key neurotransmitter, dopamine, is intricately linked to the ability to anticipate, pursue, and experience pleasure. Notably, animal studies suggest that exposure to sustained stress may negatively impact molecules in the brain responsible for dopamine release, which subsequently may result in depressive symptoms.
Full article:
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304734304579517953987157822
