For those with an improperly functioning thyroid, a number of symptoms can result. These include excessive fatigue, anxiety, trouble concentrating, weight gain and depression. Because the depression is directly linked to poor thyroid production, the best solution for treating the depression simply calls for treating the underlying hypothroidism. In many cases, this means taking synthroid.
Benefits of Synthroid for Depression
Though thyroid issues are commonly linked to depression, few doctors think to check for hypothyroidism when a patient comes in complaining about depression. More likely, they will simply prescribe antidepressants. While these medications may help with depression, they do nothing to attack the root of the problem.
Though synthroid is not specifically prescribed for depression, a positive change in mood is often a welcome side effect of taking the drug. This is because synthroid is effective in restoring proper levels of thyroid hormones to the body. The result is a return to a balanced hormone system that increases energy and mood.
Because synthroid has the potential to solve a number of symptoms (including depression), it is recommended that depressed individuals request thyroid tests from their family doctors. This includes T3, T4 and antibody tests, as well as a 24-hour adrenal saliva test.
Additional Synthroid Treatment Options
Though synthroid can be helpful in reducing depression, further steps are often necessary. For some, a combination of synthroid and antidepressants may be necessary. For others, therapy sessions with a psychiatrist may also be helpful. Through these treatment sessions, patients will learn the causes and fears related to their depression, as well as coping mechanisms to help keep it in check.
Thyroid levels are also affected considerably by stress and anxiety. Elevated levels of stress have been known to wreak havoc with hormone levels and increase the probability of depression. Because of this, many thyroid depression patients find help at specialized centers for stress, such as the Midwest Center for Stress and Depression (http://www.stresscenter.com/mwc/). Oftentimes, these programs are just as effective as one-on-one treatment sessions with a licensed psychologist.
