Block Stress on Vulnerable Genes Creating Depression

There's often a stone age example... A cavewoman senses danger. She responds and saves the lives of her tribe. The question is - Was she simply in the right place at the right time or was she more open to this danger?

Well, it depends on the situation, doesn't it? I'm sure we're all built to avoid danger. We have built-in perceptions that cause us to move frantically even when we previously felt sluggish. However, within a group of women, you will find some that respond quicker than others. And some that react heavily to circumstances others simply brush over.

Consequently, this attribute could be a blessing or weakness

For one thing, the world is a very different place. Even over the last 10 years so much has changed. In our modern world, we might get a little stress response while being the focus of attention. Maybe you're being quizzed. Or delivering a speech. And cortisol (stress hormone) levels begin to rise. That's quite normal, isn't it?

Although, your reaction to a stressful situation can be very different to the next person. As a matter of fact, at the beginning of this century scientists discovered and have gone on to prove that your genes play a role in your response.[1,2,3] The expression of your serotonin transporter in your genes is linked to your risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide.[4,5,6] If your pair of serotonin transporter codes is both short, your risk goes up.

In fact, studies show that people with this short genotype produce more cortisol.[7,8] Incidentally, it all stems back to the serotonin system in your brain. Serotonin activates and regulates hormone glands. Your adrenal gland is eventually stimulated to produce stress hormones... like cortisol.

When you're under pressure, cortisol can be a lifesaver and a performance booster. You could do the best work you've ever done or kicked butts in a competition or simply remember to do something important. However, prolonged pressure and exhaustion and fear can lead to burn-out and adrenal fatigue. And such circumstances can lead to your genes expressing signs of distress.

Reducing Daily Emotional Stress to Avoid Depression

Clearly, too much stress is not good for you... especially if you have the short genetic variation. So, in a world where we are now always connected to negative messages via social media through our mobiles. And rude comments by the people around us. This adding to other pressures of life. Maybe we should identify ways of reducing daily emotional stresses. It might be turning off social media notifications and only checking them periodically. Or choosing to only connect with positive people. Or reducing your load by asking for help.

Whatever's stressing you out, there's always a way around it. We simply have to remember that we are no longer designed for this world... there's some evolving for us to do. So balance your life as best you can to avoid stressing out vulnerable genes.