Many people use caffeinated substances, such as coffee, tea and chocolate, on a regular basis. In fact, caffeine is one of the most widely used drugs in the world, according to a 1998 review published in the journal "Psychopharmacology." Although there is no research that shows caffeine causes depression, it may have an impact on depressive symptoms, says MayoClinic.com psychiatrist, Daniel K. Hall-Flavin.
Facts about Caffeine
Caffeine is one of the most widely studied drugs in the world. According to a review published in the November/December 1998 issue of the journal "Nutrition & Food Science," caffeine occurs naturally in the seeds, leaves and fruits of over 60 different types of plants. It is present in coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate, and is also added to energy drinks for its stimulating effect. Caffeine is known as an antagonist of the central nervous system receptor adenosine, meaning that it blocks your brain's receptor for this neurotransmitter. If you regularly consume caffeine, your body must adapt by creating more and more adenosine receptors. Among its other biological roles, adenosine plays an important role in sleep by signaling when you're tired and when it's time to go to sleep.
Caffeine, Insomnia and Depression
Caffeine interferes with your body's natural signals that it's time to go to sleep. Hall-Flavin points out that caffeine may be linked to depression because it causes insomnia. If you don't get enough sleep, you may be more susceptible to depression. Because your body produces more adenosine receptors, you have more receptors that provide signals of tiredness and sleepiness. If you stop consuming caffeine, you feel sluggish and tired during the day. If you're a heavy coffee drinker or user of other caffeinated substances, you may develop a condition known as caffeine tolerance. Caffeine tolerance is a type of addiction . If you suddenly stop using caffeine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.
Caffeinism and Caffeine Withdrawal
Caffeinism is the name used to describe caffeine dependence, a condition that results from a regular intake of excessive amounts of caffeine. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms mimic those of withdrawal symptoms of other drugs. While depression is one of the symptoms of caffeine withdrawal, other serious symptoms often also occur. According to a review published in 2004 in the journal, "Psychopharmacology," the symptoms of caffeine withdrawal include headache, decreased alertness, fatigue, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating and irritability. The review suggests that caffeine withdrawal should be an official diagnosis in the American Psychiatric Association's "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders," due to the severity of these symptoms.
Depression and Caffeine - Considerations
While a direct link between caffeine and depression has not been proven, the effects of caffeine can increase the risk of depression in certain individuals, particularly those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine. If you are worried about your caffeine intake, consult your doctor. Additionally, if you think you are depressed, do not attempt to self-diagnose your condition. Talk to your doctor or a qualified mental health professional to discuss your symptoms and possible treatment options.
