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Magnesium and Severe Depression

Depression is an illness that can become so severe that it interferes with an individual's ability to function. Researchers theorize that magnesium deficiency, attributable to diet and other environmental factors, can cause or contribute to severe depression.

  1. Symptoms

    • The symptoms of depression include hopelessness, sadness, anxiety, stress and irritability. In severe cases, individuals may feel so hopeless that they think suicide is their only recourse.

    Causes

    • While the exact causes of depression remain unknown, researchers believe a variety of factors can cause severe depression, including genetic predisposition, stress and other environmental factors, and hormonal imbalances. Individuals with a family history of depression or who experienced traumatic events as a child are more susceptible to depression.

    Treatments

    • Severe depression is usually treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Although medications treat the symptoms of depression, they can cause side effects in some individuals, including dry mouth, nausea and high blood pressure.

    Magnesium Deficiency

    • Research indicates that magnesium deficiency causes severe depression in some individuals. People who consume high amounts of processed foods often lack magnesium and other essential nutrients in their diets. Researchers hypothesize the deficiency may be related to excess calcium levels in the body.

    Magnesium's Effects

    • A 2006 study conducted by Texas researchers George and Karen Eby points to improvements in depression symptoms following magnesium therapy. Although additional studies are needed, individuals seeking an alternative treatment may wish to consider magnesium supplements.

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