PsychRounds: The Psychiatry Podcast

Psych Congress Series: The Biological and Evolutionary Underpinnings of Depression with Dr. Charles Raison

10 snips
Aug 13, 2025
Dr. Charles Raison, a renowned psychiatrist and professor, dives deep into the biological and evolutionary aspects of depression. He discusses the role of inflammation and the HPA axis in mood disorders. Raison highlights innovative treatments, including psychedelics, and the potential of precision medicine tailored to inflammation responses. The conversation also honors the late Dr. Vladimir Maletic, reflecting on his significant contributions to psychiatry. Listeners gain insights into major depressive disorder's complexities and emerging therapies like pramipexole.
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ANECDOTE

Remembering Vladimir Maletic

  • Charles Raison shared fond memories of his co-author Vlad Maletic and his impact on psychiatric education.
  • He recalled Maletic's clarity, kindness, and the difficulty of presenting a memorial talk without becoming emotional.
INSIGHT

Depression Is A Heterogeneous Spectrum

  • Major depressive disorder is not a single discrete entity but a spectrum with many symptom combinations.
  • Depression likely represents a final common pathway for many different biological and social causes.
INSIGHT

An Evolutionary Lens On Depression

  • Evolutionary perspectives suggest depression is a species-typical response to adversity preserved because it offered adaptive benefits.
  • The syndrome appears across cultures and even in distant vertebrates, implying deep evolutionary roots.
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