Before You Try Another Pill-The REAL cause of Depression and What to Do

Is depression just a chemical imbalance? Do antidepressants actually work — or is it mostly placebo? In this episode of Health Made Clear, Justin breaks down the science, stigma, and complexity of depression. From SSRIs and SNRIs to BDNF, cortisol, and metabolic syndromes, we unpack what current research really says about causes and treatments. You’ll learn why the serotonin theory is outdated, how lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and sunlight play a role, and what non-medication strategies might help. If you’re tired of oversimplified mental health advice, this is the clear, evidence-based breakdown you’ve been waiting for.

🔍 Topics Covered:

Depression statistics (WHO, NIMH)

Medication effectiveness & placebo effect

Debunking the serotonin theory

Role of inflammation, cortisol, and metabolic disorders

Diet, social media, and environmental factors

Exercise, sunlight, and vitamin D as treatment options

Why nuance matters in mental health

Personal stories and practical takeaways

📎 Studies & Sources Mentioned PMID: 32021580, 36632273, 22517938, 36253441, 23763464, 27750060, 10512104

Keywords: depression explained, serotonin myth, antidepressant placebo effect, SSRIs vs SNRIs, BDNF and depression, cortisol and mental health, metabolic syndrome depression link, exercise for depression, vitamin D mental health, mental health stigma, Health Made Clear, Justin mental health, depression treatment options, social media and depression, inflammation and depression, intrinsic motivation depression, mental health recovery stories

Hashtags: #DepressionExplained #MentalHealthMyths #Antidepressants #PlaceboEffect #SSRIs #BDNF #Cortisol #MetabolicSyndrome #VitaminD #ExerciseForMentalHealth #HealthMadeClear #MentalHealthAwareness #DepressionTreatment #StigmaFree #ScienceBasedHealth #MentalHealthRecovery #IntrinsicHealing