A scan for future depression could someday be as simple as looking at an angry face.
In a recent study at Duke University, researchers monitored the brains of healthy adults who were asked to look at pictures of mad or scary faces. People who showed more actvity in a brain region called the amygdala—the area that plays a key role in emotional reactions—were more likely to be depressed or suffer anxiety after stressful situations as far as four years down the road. (Tame some of your tension with these 52 Ways to Chase Away Stress.)
On its own, a strong amygdala response isn’t necessarily bad, says study author Ahmad Hariri, Ph.D. People with a heightened reaction tend to be less likely to engage in risky activities like problem drinking, as the amygdala regulates the brain’s reward-seeking behavior.
The amygdala is like a watchdog, Hariri says: “Its job is to bark and alert you of danger.” Another brain region—the pre-frontal cortex—is the dog owner: It’s supposed to assess said danger, and quiet the animal down. If it can’t, your perception of stressful scenarios can become exaggerated, upping your risk of mood problems.
It’s the people with high amygdala responses and poor pre-frontal cortex responses who are prone to psychological vulnerability later on, Hariri says.
While docs certainly can’t predict depression or anxiety just quite yet, if you’re overly stressed or seriously down in the dumps, cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective techniques for strengthening your mind, specifically your pre-frontal cortex, says Hariri. It’s a crucial part of Your 4-Step Guide to Happiness.
