The Complex Relationship Between Major Depressive Disorder and Various Health Issues

The chapter explores the connections between major depressive disorder and health issues like atherosclerosis, heart disease, hypertension, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis, suggesting a link with accelerated aging. It discusses the evolution of treatment guidelines for depression, emphasizing the importance of ongoing antidepressant treatment for preventing relapse and the concerns surrounding polypharmacy. Additionally, it delves into the relationship between depression and neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the involvement of neural networks and neurotransmitters in the development of depressive symptoms.