24/07/2025
Is there a blood test for depression? Yes, No, Yes, ………
Whilst there is no one size fits all blood test that diagnoses depression, there are many tests that can find a cause or combination of causes in depression. But unfortunately when people visit GPs to discuss their feelings of depression, and anxiety, it is rare for blood tests to be run to look for these underlying causes
Whilst there are many lifestyle, personal and social factors that are involved also, physiologic factors are neglected or ignored totally. And this is wrong!!!
These are the tests that I routinely run, to find these underlying causes. It is not exhaustive, but an excellent place to start, depending on your specific circumstances and history
Inflammation markers (CRP, ESR), to measure body and related brain/neuro-inflammation and other signs of inflammation (raised liver enzymes, raised LDH, lowered albumin)
Omega - 3 INDEX ( a measure of DHA/EPA - Low omega 3 cell content is a direct cause of major depression, postpartum depression, psychosis, and dementia )
Thyroid function TSH, T4, T3 (more often under active, occasionally over active)
Nutrients (Low or high iron, Low Vitamin B12, Low Vitamin D, Low Folate, low Zinc , low Magnesium, Low or high Iodine, high Copper)
Homocysteine - a compound we make, that in excess causes neurologic and cardiovascular damage, and is usally caused by a deficiency of B vitamins and other nutrients (choline, betaine)
Omega 3 deficiencies
Viral infections (current or a history of EBV –glandular fever virus, synonomous with recurrent tonsilitis, CMV)
Immune imbalances and Immunoglobulin levels (indicating immune activation, or allergic activation)
S*x hormone imbalances (females - relative progesterone deficiency, elevated Prolactin, low or high testosterone, especially in men)
�Stress hormone dysregulation (Cortisol, DHEA)
Blood sugar dysregulation (Insulin resistance, insensitivity)
Gut inflammation (calprotectin)
Gluten and other food reactions (gluten and related antibodies)
Genetic susceptibilities (We can now test for what is know as genetic polymorphisms, which affect or alter the optimal function of our genes)
Though the diagnosis of depression is increasingly acknowledged and screened, the myriad of causes are often neglected and not investigated, resulting in many people suffering greater and longer.
I am always conscious, when helping people achieve their best health, of accentuating the positives, the good in you and in your health AND working with your strengths. This is even more important when helping depression. anxiety and other brain health conditions.
Whilst treating depression can be complex, many of the factors that need attention, are well known and understood. As a Naturopath and a Pharmacist, I pay special attention to these many varied factors that are routinely neglected in treatment. I am also mindful of prescribing supplements that are safe and effective alongside prescribed anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications.
Botanica Medica is located at 97-99 Glen Osmond Road, Eastwood or call (08) 8271-1827 to make an appointment
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