Depression and Its Effects on the Brain Depression affects millions around the world, across all age groups. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 350 million people struggle with this mental health condition. Beyond the emotional impact, depression can physically alter the brain. It affects neural pathways and synapses and can reduce the hippocampus, the region responsible for memory and emotional regulation. These changes often lead to mental fatigue, poor concentration, and a sense of isolation from the world. How Depression Alters Brain Function Research involving 8,930 participants, including 1,728 diagnosed with major depression, found that 65% of those with depression had a smaller hippocampus. Interestingly, first-time depression episodes showed less shrinkage, indicating that repeated depressive episodes may contribute to structural brain changes over time. Professor Ian Hickie explains: “The more depressive episodes someone experiences, the greate...