There are many theories about what causes mental health conditions. The problem is that no one really knows exactly why some people suffer from problems, such as depression and eating disorders, while others go through life without experiencing mental illness. One such theory is known as the "chemical imbalance" theory.
What is the "Chemical Imbalance" Theory?
The "chemical imbalance" theory is derived from the Biological Model of the mind. This model takes the view that psychiatric conditions are a direct result of an excess or deficiency of different brain chemicals. Due to the development of various medications which improved specific symptoms associated with mental health problems, combined with a greater understanding as to how medication affects the brain, the "chemical imbalance" theory became increasingly popular.
Is Depression Caused by a Chemical Imbalance?
One illness which has been particularly affected by the Biological Model and "chemical imbalance" theory is depression. This arose from findings that some people suffering from depression also had low levels of the neurotransmitter known as serotonin.
In Cognitive Therapy for Chronic and Persistent Depression, Moore and Garland (2004) identify that the vast majority of people diagnosed with depression are prescribed antidepressants as a first-line treatment, due to depression being presented as a biological problem. However, it is important to understand that, as recognised by Drummond (2006), in The Complete Guide to Psychiatric Drugs, no biological etiology has actually been proven for depression.
It is safe to say that the jury is still out, in terms of whether depression is caused by a chemical imbalance. Therefore, embracing both medication and therapy may be the best option for those suffering from moderate to severe depression.
Limitations of the "Chemical Imbalance" Theory
There are some serious limitations associated with the Biological Model and belief that all forms of mental illness are a direct result of a lack or excess of certain chemicals in the brain. The main problem with telling patients that their illness, such as depression, is completely down to their genes and has a biological cause, relates to treatment. As identified by Moore and Garland (2004), a patient who strongly believes their illness has a biological cause, will likely have a very limited expectation of any therapy being effective.
Further disadvantages of focusing solely on the "chemical imbalance" theory and Biological Model, include the following:
- when medications do not help, patients can feel hopeless
- dis-empowering to patients
- makes it harder for sufferers to embrace therapy
- results in patients taking medications they do not need
- medication is rarely the answer in the long-term
As highlighted above, the "chemical imbalance" theory arose from the discovery of new medications, such as antidepressants, combined with greater understanding about how these affect the chemicals in the brain. However, the belief that mental health conditions, such as depression, are caused solely by chemical imbalance, makes depression sufferers less likely to embrace therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy and cognitive analytical therapy. While antidepressants and anti-psychotics can help relieve some of the physical symptoms associated with depression and bipolar disorder, they do not help treat any underlying issues.
Sources:
Drummond, E. (2006) The Complete Guide to Psychiatric Drugs New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons.
Moore, R. & Garland, A. (2004) Cognitive Therapy for Chronic and Persistent Depression Chichester: John Wiley & Sons.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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