Unpredictable Stress & Depression

Stress does appear to be a risk factor for depression. However, studies at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University have discovered evidence that short-term stress such as a series of tough college exams or preparing one’s tax return is not the type of stress that seems to be linked with depression. Instead. is “chronic, unpredictable stress like that which erupts in our personal and professional lives.” For example, working in an environment where the “boss” or “supervisor’ periodically flies into a rage. Or living in an environment where a partner flies into a rage periodically. The kicker is that the brain does not know when this unpredictable stress may occur, which induces changes in the function of these AgRP neurons. “Walking on eggs,” wondering when the next shoe will drop, et cetera, creates a type of unpredictable chronic stress that is now being linked with an increased risk for depression.