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Is Caffeine Good or Bad for Depression?
In the medical field, you see a lot of depression, and the stress of the pandemic has only led to more people complaining of feeling sad, down, and having difficulty sleeping.
Depression saps energy and motivation, and makes it hard to find joy in anything. The medical term for not enjoying anything is called anhedonia.
People suffering from depression often say they can’t concentrate, and it’s like they’re looking through a foggy window into a sea of gray.
What’s interesting is that people often tell me they feel better, at least temporarily after drinking a cup of caffeinated coffee. It may not be a long-term solution to the complex issue of depression, but it gives them a temporary lift.
But what does science say about caffeine and depression? Let’s look at whether caffeine helps or hinders depressive symptoms.
The Effect of Caffeine on Depression
Caffeine is a psychoactive substance with mood-altering properties. Studies show caffeine boosts alertness and has a stimulating effect on the body. I’m sure you’ve noticed you feel more alert, energetic, focused, and motivated after a few cups of coffee. The stimulating effects even extend to physical performance.
