The chapter delves into the significance of oxytocin, known as the 'love hormone', in promoting bonding and reducing stress. It explores the impact of oxytocin release through activities like hugging, breastfeeding, and sex, highlighting its potential to induce a calming effect. The discussion also extends to hormonal changes in women, such as postpartum depression, menopause, and PMDD, emphasizing the necessity of recognizing and treating these conditions.
What is depression? Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly break down the neuroscience behind major depression, its treatments, and the factors that contribute to this pervasive condition with neuroscientist Heather Berlin, PhD.
NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here:
https://startalkmedia.com/show/why-we-get-depressed-with-heather-berlin/
Thanks to our Patrons Geoff Malone, Neander Rowlett, Brial Teel, Baran Blaser, Maxwell Miller, Doug Litwin, and Edward Bally for supporting us this week.
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