Imbalances in neurotransmitter levels are thought to play a role in depression. Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that enable nerve cells (neurons) to communicate. They're released into the gaps (synapses) between nerve cells to help nerve messages flow from one cell to another. If neurons don't produce enough of these chemicals, nerve messages aren't communicated and areas of your brain may not receive stimulation. Alterations in neurotransmission in areas of the brain that control mood and emotion may result in depression.
