High levels of stress are linked to depression. Stress can be caused by the demands of family, workplace etc. Multitasking and juggling multiple roles is not easy. Stress is a part and parcel of modern day lifestyle. While most people manage to cope with the demands of modern life, many others find it a struggle.

They experience higher levels of stress than normal. Stress can affect ones physical and mental well being. Stress is associated with diseases like heat problems, cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders etc. It is also linked to depression. When a person is stressed, the level of the hormone cortisol in the body increases. Several studies have shown that elevated cortisol levels trigger symptoms of depression. Cortisol hormone stimulates receptors on neurons, thereby preparing the body for action when faced with a threat.

This is a natural response. However, prolonged periods of stress and increased cortisol levels reduce the efficiency of neurons. This could be the reason for anxiety, mood swings, feeling out of control etc. The end point of all this is a state of depression. Treatment for depression should also involve stress management techniques like meditation, exercise, yoga, music therapy and so on. This together with psychological counseling will help treat depression.