Hey guys I went to see my psychiatrist today We talked about how depression can cause you to lose brain mass and that we need to find a way to increase mine. Essentially he said the because you don't use the parts of your brain that allow you to memorize and to concentrate because of depression, essentially those parts of the brain are going to shrink. This is natural selection. Your body keeps the parts it needs and disposes of the parts it doesn't.So he put me on Vyvanse because I am easily distracted and put me on Wellbutrin to regulate my mood.The problem is I need to get some health insurance. I'm not on any right now because I am not in school and I am financially suspended so I'd have to get a job. But I'm afraid I'd just be working to take my medicine. So I'm stuck in a big rut, but that's the progress I've made.I've got some answers and I am extremely happy my doctor is able to tell me what is going on inside my head. Any help with my situation would be appreciated.
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Progress in my recovery from Manic Depression...
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Originally Posted By: droppydees
Essentially he said the because you don't use the parts of your brain that allow you to memorize and to concentrate because of depression, essentially those parts of the brain are going to shrink.
I agree with your doc. But also consider the rewiring of your neuronal network and hormonal changes (pitutary secretions). I don't believe brain would shrink unless it some thing more serious than "not using your parts of brain".
Get a MRI or CT scan done to determine if there is any "shrinking" and consult a neurologist about it if there is any shrinking of brain matter.
I can only suggest you to eat a healthy and balanced diet, brain needs glucose and fat (omega3/fish oil/flax seed oil).
Next I suggest you do puzzles, use flash cards to do memory exercises (there are some free programs available on internet), try mnemonics and any other brain exercises.
If you start using your brain, provide yourself with good nutrition and exercise, I bet you will be fine in few weeks.
Medicines alone do no good in psychiatry. They are only like a walking stick which you can use for support as you step forward, but it's YOU who has to step forward. Just drugs will not help, put some effort on your own with their help, that's how one gets good results from any treatment.
PS: contact me if you need help.