Can a psychiatric disorder be diagnosed with a blood test? That may be the future if two recent studies pan out. Researchers are figuring out how to differentiate the blood of a depressed person from that of someone without depression.

In the latest study, published today (April 17) in the journal Translational Psychiatry, researchers identified 11 new markers, or chemicals in the blood, for early-onset depression. These markers were found in different levels in teens with depression compared with their levels in teens who didn’t have the condition.

Currently, depression is diagnosed by a subjective test, dependent upon a person’s own explanation of their symptoms, and a psychiatrist’s interpretation of them. These blood tests aren’t meant to replace a psychiatrist, but could make the diagnosis process easier.

via Depression in Teens Could Be Diagnosed with Blood Test: Scientific American.

Andrew Fuller will be speaking at our Mental Health and Wellbeing Seminars  on depression and suicide prevention. The remaining seminars for this year will be in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Sydney. To register or download the brochure click on one of these locations or go to the events section of our website. These events are extremely popular so we urge you to book your seat soon!