Methylation, mood and the depression link

Methylation supports neurotransmitter synthesis and regulates gene expression, potentially influencing mental health.¹

Depression is much more than occasional sadness; it's a serious mood disorder that leads to persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in daily activities. Unlike temporary low moods, depression can last for weeks, months, or even years, and isn't something people can simply "snap out of." 

In Australia, around one million adults experience depression each year. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of antidepressant medications isn't as high as we might hope, with many patients not achieving full remission with the first medication they try. This highlights the importance of continuing to search for better ways to manage mood disorders. Integrative approaches, which may include both pharmaceuticals and alternative therapies, could be especially useful, particularly when medications cause unwanted side effects or aren't suitable for everyone. 

One crucial aspect of mood regulation is a process called methylation. Methylation involves adding methyl groups to various compounds in the body, which is essential for normal gene function, detoxification, cardiovascular health, inflammation regulation, and energy production. In the brain, methylation is vital for producing and metabolising hormones and neurotransmitters like melatonin, serotonin, cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. When methylation is impaired, it can disrupt the balance of these hormones and neurotransmitters, leading to negative effects on mood and cognition. 

This infographic will explore the methylation cycle, the nutrients it relies on, and how supporting this cycle can help patients with depression.