The Link Between Hypothyroidism and Depression

Is there a link between Hypothyroidism and depression? There definitely is! In this episode of the Thyroid Answers Podcast Drs. Eric Balcavage and Erica Riggleman discuss why depression is such a common symptoms in those with hypothyroidism.

In the podcast they will discuss why depression is not only a possible side effect but a highly probable side effect.

For the vast majority of people with Hypothyroidism, their condition is caused by an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s Disease. At the root of Hashimoto’s is often a stress / inflammatory condition in the body that triggers the diversion of an amino acid called tryptophan away from the feel good neurotransmitter called serotonin to more toxic substances.

Under the same conditions the body innately increases the rate of serotonin metabolism and clearance from the body. These two factors leave you with limited amounts of serotonin. With limited amounts of circulating serotonin, you feel tired, fatigued, moody, and depressed. The doctors will discuss why medications like SSRI’s may improve depression but lead to other problems like anxiety.

The doctors will discuss other factors that can cause depression along with the genetic polymorphisims some people have that may make them more likely to have depression.

If you suffer with Hypothyroidism and depression, you will want to listen to this podcast a few times to understand all the get points discussed during this podcast.