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10. Depression
The central nervous system regulates the body and the brain. When patients experience complications with the CNS due to the onset of spina bifida, they may notice changes to their mental state. The thoughts relating to their condition and its impact on their life may result in feelings of depression and low levels of mood.
Depression is a serious mental illness left undiagnosed and untreated; the patient may experience thoughts of suicide. Depression affects millions of Americans. It occurs due to the brain’s inability to manage its serotonin levels. Serotonin is the biochemical transmitter responsible for regulating our mood. Without enough serotonin, we start to experience low mood levels and eventually the onset of depression.
Patients with spina bifida who experience depression need counseling with a psychiatric professional. Fortunately, it’s possible to manage the effects of depression through counseling and the use of anti-depressant medications like Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).