Despite its name, atypical depression is one of the most common yet frequently under-diagnosed forms of clinical depression. In fact, according to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, atypical depression is the most common form of depression among outpatients. In recent years, studies have focused on the benefits of chromium and chromium supplementation in this often-debilitating mental health disorder.
About Atypical Depression
Atypical depression is a form of depression that results in both "typical" and "atypical" depressive symptoms. The typical symptoms of depression include those that occur in other forms of depression. These symptoms include feelings of sadness, tearfulness, hopelessness, worthlessness, a lowered sense of self-esteem and a lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy. The atypical symptoms include those that do not generally manifest in other forms of depression. Whereas people suffering from other types of depression may experience insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss and anxiety, people with atypical depression often crave heavy, carbohydrate-laden foods, experience weight gain and have an increased need for sleep. In addition, atypical depression sufferers have an increased sensitivity to criticism from others, frequent interpersonal difficulties, experience debilitating fatigue and may also temporarily experience a decrease in depressive symptoms upon hearing good news.
Conventional Treatment
Conventional treatments for atypical depression are generally similar to those of other types of depressive disorders. Treatment usually includes a combination of medication, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, or alternative treatments such as herbs like St. John's wort or mind-body treatments like yoga and acupuncture, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, scientists have also examined the effects of certain nutrients, such as chromium, on the development and treatment of atypical depression.
Importance of Chromium
Chromium is an important nutrient that helps regulate blood sugar levels. If your brain doesn't receive a steady supply of energy, in the form of glucose, you may become fatigued, cranky and depressed. According to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, atypical depression symptoms are similar to a blood sugar disorder called reactive hypoglycemia or dysinsulinism. In his book, "Lifting Depression: The Chromium Connection," psychiatrist Malcolm Noell McLeod states that atypical depression may be the result of insulin resistance. McLeod points out that chromium has a beneficial effect on the "feel-good," mood-regulating neurotransmitter produced in your brain known as serotonin.
Clinical Evidence
Several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of chromium on symptoms of atypical depression. A 2003 study by Jonathan R.T. Davidson and fellow researchers, published in the journal "Biological Psychiatry," showed that chromium may have antidepressant effects on symptoms of atypical depression. Additionally, another study, published in the September 2005 issue of the "Journal of Psychiatric Practice," demonstrated the beneficial effects of chromium on appetite regulation and carbohydrate cravings in patients suffering from atypical depression.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Atypical Depression: Alternative Medicine
- "Lifting Depression: The Chromium Connection"; Malcolm Noell McLeod, M.D.; 2005
- Bastyr Center for Natural Health: Chromium Effective for Atypical Depression
- "Biological Psychiatry"; Effectiveness of Chromium in Atypical Depression: A Placebo-Controlled Trial; Jonathan R. T. Davidson, et al.; February 2003
- "Journal of Psychiatric Practice"; A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Exploratory Trial of Chromium Picolinate in Atypical Depression: Effect on Carbohydrate Craving; John Docherty, M.D., et al.; September 2005
