Serotonin
A substance involved in mood, sleep and digestion — but the »too little serotonin« explanation is far too simple.
What we know
Serotonin is involved in numerous processes, and most of it is in the gut. The theory that depression is caused by a shortage of it isn’t supported by the research; and the fact that medication works doesn’t mean the cause is a chemical deficit.
Why it matters
Because an over-simple explanation leads to the belief that there is only one route. In depression both psychotherapy and medical treatment have their place, often together.
See also
Movement and mood
Regular physical activity has an effect on mild and moderate depression comparable to other forms of help.
Learned helplessness
The belief that you can't affect the outcome — formed through repeated experiences in which you genuinely couldn't.
Co-parenting
Parents working together on raising their children after a separation — a relationship that remains, although the partnership has ended.
