This is the third and final of the series about the three key reasons why neurochemical imbalances occur: genetics, hormonal change and stressors. I will be discussing the role that stressors play.

  It's obvious that when stressors increase, that this would negatively affect a person's mood and state of mind. Examples of stressors are traumatic events such as deaths of people close to us, relationship problems such as separations and divorce, financial upheaval, loss of job, loss of home, problems with children and family and others. Witnessing horrific events such as certain soldiers returning from combat, and other extreme stressors such as being a victim of rape or robbery can lead to "post-traumatic" stress disorder.

  There are positive and negative stressors. Examples of positive stressors are getting a better job and having more responsibility, having a child, moving into a new and better house or office, etc. Examples of negative stressors are listed above. Stressful events in our lives represent change in one's life and change can mean loss of control which leads to discomfort, since we all like to feel in control.

  With all else being equal (genetics and hormonal changes that are occurring) situational stressors can be the "straw that breaks the camel's back", which can lead to a negative change in mood such as acute depression, anxiety attacks, manic episodes, insomnia, etc. Other factors which contribute to changes in mood are environmental changes. For example, depression occurs more often when one is exposed to less sunlight and more gloomy weather. There is also more mood problems during the holiday season, and during anniversaries of deaths of loved ones or other more extreme events.

  Even though most of the factors that lead to mood changes cannot be controlled, the good news is that one can still regain control by treating the underlying chemical imbalances with appropriate medication use, regular exercise and counseling. Treatment is very effective when done correctly. I am able to achieve excellent results with the methods I have learned, so feel free to come in and see me if help is needed. Bye for now.