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  • Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself?
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Living with depression

Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself?

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avatar OnionLayers

OnionLayers

12/18/2023 at 6:37 AM

avatar OnionLayers

OnionLayers

Last activity on 02/05/2024 at 2:32 AM

Joined in 2023


7 comments posted | 6 in the Living with depression group


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I remember learning that depression was a chemical imbalance. I legit picture a brain with A particles on one side and B particles on the other but there are more As then Bs. Silly visual image, but when I can't get out of bed, that is what I picture is happening.

Then I think- "well it's chemically happening, I can't change it"

I'm pretty sure this is not what is happening. But I actually don't know enough about it. Can I actually fix it myself? Is there something I can do to "rebalance" my brain?

Would love to know what your doctors have told you, please pass on the knowledge!


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avatar asaan32

asaan32

06/09/2024 at 6:32 PM

Good advisor

avatar asaan32

asaan32

Last activity on 05/27/2025 at 11:52 AM

Joined in 2020


31 comments posted | 14 in the Living with depression group

3 of their responses were helpful to members


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Yeah, I get what you're saying. While the chemical imbalance theory isn't the whole picture, there's still a lot you can do to help yourself. Therapy, exercise, and small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. 


Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself? https://www.carenity.us/forum/other-discussions/living-with-depression/is-depression-really-a-chemical-imbalance-how-5654 2024-06-09 18:32:37

avatar RowanButler

RowanButler

Edited on 02/17/2025 at 5:58 PM

avatar RowanButler

RowanButler

Last activity on 02/16/2025 at 2:35 PM

Joined in 2025

Patient, Transient ischemic attack since 2025


1 comment posted | 1 in the Living with depression group


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Depression isn't just a simple chemical imbalance; it's influenced by brain structure, stress, inflammation, and even gut health. While neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine play a role, other factors like sleep, diet, and exercise also impact mood. You can help rebalance your brain by staying active, getting sunlight, improving sleep, and eating nutrient-rich foods. Therapy and mindfulness techniques can also help retrain thought patterns. If symptoms persist, seeking medical advice for therapy or medication may be beneficial.

[This content has been moderated by an administrator.] 


Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself? https://www.carenity.us/forum/other-discussions/living-with-depression/is-depression-really-a-chemical-imbalance-how-5654 2025-02-16 14:35:28

avatar Somya.P

Somya.P

Community manager
05/07/2025 at 9:59 AM

Good advisor

avatar Somya.P

Somya.P

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Last activity on 06/13/2025 at 6:10 PM

Joined in 2023


647 comments posted | 28 in the Living with depression group

22 of their responses were helpful to members


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Hi everyone 🌿

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This is such an important and deeply personal topic — thank you to those who’ve already shared their thoughts. Depression can take many forms and have many causes, and it's completely valid to question and explore what it really means, especially when you're going through it.

➡️ How do you personally understand your experience with depression — as something chemical, situational, emotional… or a mix of everything?
➡️ Have you found things that help you cope, even in small ways, when you feel like you're on your own?

Feel free to share what’s helped you or simply how you’re feeling — this space is here for open and compassionate conversation 💛

Take care,
Somya.P, from the Carenity team

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Somya from the Carenity team


Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself? https://www.carenity.us/forum/other-discussions/living-with-depression/is-depression-really-a-chemical-imbalance-how-5654 2025-05-07 09:59:21

avatar brainhealthsolutions

brainhealthsolutions

Edited on 05/28/2025 at 11:11 AM

avatar brainhealthsolutions

brainhealthsolutions

Last activity on 05/28/2025 at 9:35 AM

Joined in 2025

Patient, Depression since 2025


1 comment posted | 1 in the Living with depression group


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I used to think depression was just a “chemical imbalance,” but I’ve learned it’s more complex than that. Yes, brain chemistry plays a role, but so do things like stress, trauma, lifestyle, and even negative thinking patterns. For me, it wasn’t just about fixing chemicals, it was about healing my mind and body together.Trying to get out of it alone felt overwhelming. I tried self-care, exercise, journaling—some of it helped, but what really made a difference was reaching out. [This content has been moderated by an administrator] You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to feel this way forever.


Is depression really a chemical imbalance? how can i get out of it by myself? https://www.carenity.us/forum/other-discussions/living-with-depression/is-depression-really-a-chemical-imbalance-how-5654 2025-05-28 09:33:57
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