Psychiatrist outlines six habits that may worsen depression symptoms

Health · First reported 8 Nov, 11:00 · Updated 11:49

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

Dr. Daniel Amen says alcohol use, withdrawal from daily activities and people, unchallenged negative thoughts, highly processed foods, and medication without a thorough assessment may worsen depression symptoms. The articles also describe research on behavioral activation, loneliness, diet, and treatment options.

The articles identify six habits Amen says may worsen symptoms: drinking alcohol, staying in bed, believing negative thoughts, isolating, eating highly processed foods, and taking medication without a proper assessment.
The coverage cites behavioral activation research and a study linking loneliness and social isolation with higher depression risk; it notes these findings describe associations, not proof of cause and effect.
The articles say treatment depends on the individual, describe psychotherapy as a common first approach for milder depression, and recommend further medical evaluation when symptoms persist.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Reported depression-rate change: Among Americans aged 12 and older, the rate rose from 8.2% in 2013–2014 to 13.1% in 2021–2023.
Antidepressant timeline: The articles say antidepressants usually take four to eight weeks to work.
Behavioral activation review: A 2020 Cochrane review covered 53 studies involving 5,495 adults.
Loneliness study: A 2025 study tracked more than 339,000 U.K. adults for roughly 12 years.