Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
How Can Blood Tests Help Diagnose Depression?
There's no one blood test that can say for sure if someone has depression. But it can help identify biological factors that may be causing symptoms.
Written by
Mito Health
Depression affects how you feel, think, sleep, and go about your daily life. In fact, it is one of the most common mental illnesses in the world, affecting more than 21 million adults in the U.S. every year.
A lot of people struggle to put their feelings into words, and often wonder if there’s a straightforward way to understand what’s going on. One question that comes up is whether a blood test can diagnose depression. The quick answer is no, there isn’t just one blood test that can tell you if you’re depressed. But that doesn’t mean a blood test isn’t helpful.
While it can't directly diagnose depression, a blood test can check for other issues like inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient shortages, and metabolic problems that might be contributing to how you're feeling. It really helps get to the bottom of what might be affecting your mood and can be an important step toward feeling better.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It can disrupt work, harm relationships, affect sleep, reduce appetite, and even be serious enough to lead to suicide.
For some, depression can last weeks, months, or even longer. There are many things that cause clinical depression, such as stress, illnesses, genetics, life situations, and even no reason at all.
Common Types of Depression
There are several depressive disorders such as:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): Persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
Postpartum depression: Depression that occurs during or after pregnancy.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression linked to seasonal changes, often in winter.
Bipolar depression: Depressive episodes that occur as part of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects people of all ages in different ways:
Persistent low mood
Loss of interest in activities
Fatigue
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Physical complaints like headaches or body pain
Oftentimes, symptoms of depression develop from a combination of factors instead of a single cause. It could be due to changes in brain chemistry, chronic stress or trauma, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, genetics, or lifestyle factors. Because both psychological and biological factors play a role, symptoms can vary in severity and duration across different life stages.
Can Depression Be Diagnosed With a Blood Test?
A doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist conducts a clinical assessment to diagnose depression. It can be diagnosed in several ways:
Clinical interviews
DSM-5 criteria
Mental status exams
Physical exams
Various questionnaires
Currently, there is no FDA-approved blood test that can confirm or rule out depression on its own.
Why Blood Tests Matter in Mental Health Care?
Depression not only affects the brain, but also the immune system, hormones, metabolism, and nutrient levels. Many people diagnosed with depression show signs of chronic inflammation, stress hormone dysregulation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and blood sugar instability.
These factors can influence mood, energy, motivation, and cognitive function. Identifying them can help guide more effective and personalized care.
Key Biomarkers Linked to Depression
Inflammation Markers
Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the most studied biological links to depression. Common markers of inflammation include C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Higher levels of these markers are often seen in people with persistent depressive symptoms. Inflammation can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.
Hormones and Stress Markers
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is often dysregulated in depression. Some people have chronically elevated cortisol, while others show flattened daily rhythms.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) and Free T4 (Thyroxine) are also important markers. Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, such as fatigue, low mood, and brain fog.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Certain nutrients are essential for brain function and neurotransmitter production. Common deficiencies linked to depressive symptoms include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and ferritin. Low levels of these nutrients in your body can lead to fatigue, low motivation, irritability, and cognitive issues.
Metabolic and Blood Sugar Markers
Blood sugar instability can affect your mood and energy levels. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels are markers often reviewed when blood sugar levels fluctuate. Insulin resistance is linked to higher depression rates. This is especially true for those facing chronic stress or living sedentary lives.
Lipids and Brain Health
Healthy fats are essential for brain structure and signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have been linked to improved mood in some people. Imbalanced lipid profiles may affect brain inflammation and neurotransmitter function.
Biomarker | Common Markers Tested | Why It Matters for Depression |
Inflammation | C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, TNF-alpha | Chronic inflammation is often elevated in people with depression and can affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. |
Stress Hormones | Cortisol | Long-term stress can disrupt cortisol levels, affecting sleep, energy, and emotional resilience. |
Thyroid Hormones | TSH, Free T3, Free T4 | Thyroid imbalances can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, including fatigue and low mood. |
Vitamin D | 25-hydroxyvitamin D | Low vitamin D levels have been linked to depressive symptoms and reduced emotional well-being. |
B Vitamins | Vitamin B12, Folate | These nutrients support brain function and neurotransmitter production; deficiencies may worsen mood and cognition. |
Iron Status | Ferritin, Serum Iron | Low iron stores can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and low motivation. |
Metabolic Health | Fasting glucose, HbA1c, Insulin | Blood sugar instability and insulin resistance have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms. |
Lipids & Fats | Omega-3 fatty acids, Cholesterol | Healthy fats support brain structure and signaling; imbalances may affect mood and inflammation. |
What a Blood Test Can Reveal?
Blood testing does not diagnose someone as depressed or not. It cannot replace a mental health diagnosis nor measure your emotions or thoughts. Testing your blood can identify biological causes of your symptoms and show conditions that might worsen or look like depression. Blood tests can also show why some treatments don't work, so your psychiatrist and psychologist can make a tailored lifestyle and treatment plan for you.
Who Should Consider Mental Health Testing?
Blood tests are helpful for:
People with ongoing depressive symptoms
Those not responding to treatment
Individuals with fatigue, burnout, or brain fog
People interested in preventive mental health screening
Testing is especially useful when symptoms are vague or overlap with physical health issues.
How Blood Testing Fits Into a Depression Care Plan?
Blood testing works best when combined with clinical evaluation, therapy or counseling, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment when appropriate. Tracking blood test biomarkers over time also shows whether interventions are working and helps your doctor guide adjustments.
The Future of Depression Blood Tests
Research is moving toward multi-marker panels that look at patterns rather than single values. Advances in data analysis and artificial intelligence may improve how these patterns are interpreted.
The goal is precision mental health care that treats individuals, not averages.
How Mito Health Approaches Mental Health Testing
Understanding the biological underpinnings of depression can be a game-changer in managing your mental health. Research shows there are strong links between depression and biological factors, such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic changes.
With the help of blood testing, it can reveal factors that affect how symptoms develop, persist, or respond to any treatment for depression. This holistic approach, combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, paves the way for more effective and personalized treatment plans.
Take the first step toward a brighter future—take a comprehensive blood panel from Mito Health and empower yourself with the insights that can transform your mental health journey. Our comprehensive lab test checks biomarkers related to depression. Get your membership today to see a clearer picture of what’s happening in your body.
Resources:
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
Comments
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
How Can Blood Tests Help Diagnose Depression?
There's no one blood test that can say for sure if someone has depression. But it can help identify biological factors that may be causing symptoms.
Written by
Mito Health
Depression affects how you feel, think, sleep, and go about your daily life. In fact, it is one of the most common mental illnesses in the world, affecting more than 21 million adults in the U.S. every year.
A lot of people struggle to put their feelings into words, and often wonder if there’s a straightforward way to understand what’s going on. One question that comes up is whether a blood test can diagnose depression. The quick answer is no, there isn’t just one blood test that can tell you if you’re depressed. But that doesn’t mean a blood test isn’t helpful.
While it can't directly diagnose depression, a blood test can check for other issues like inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient shortages, and metabolic problems that might be contributing to how you're feeling. It really helps get to the bottom of what might be affecting your mood and can be an important step toward feeling better.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It can disrupt work, harm relationships, affect sleep, reduce appetite, and even be serious enough to lead to suicide.
For some, depression can last weeks, months, or even longer. There are many things that cause clinical depression, such as stress, illnesses, genetics, life situations, and even no reason at all.
Common Types of Depression
There are several depressive disorders such as:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): Persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
Postpartum depression: Depression that occurs during or after pregnancy.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression linked to seasonal changes, often in winter.
Bipolar depression: Depressive episodes that occur as part of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects people of all ages in different ways:
Persistent low mood
Loss of interest in activities
Fatigue
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Physical complaints like headaches or body pain
Oftentimes, symptoms of depression develop from a combination of factors instead of a single cause. It could be due to changes in brain chemistry, chronic stress or trauma, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, genetics, or lifestyle factors. Because both psychological and biological factors play a role, symptoms can vary in severity and duration across different life stages.
Can Depression Be Diagnosed With a Blood Test?
A doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist conducts a clinical assessment to diagnose depression. It can be diagnosed in several ways:
Clinical interviews
DSM-5 criteria
Mental status exams
Physical exams
Various questionnaires
Currently, there is no FDA-approved blood test that can confirm or rule out depression on its own.
Why Blood Tests Matter in Mental Health Care?
Depression not only affects the brain, but also the immune system, hormones, metabolism, and nutrient levels. Many people diagnosed with depression show signs of chronic inflammation, stress hormone dysregulation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and blood sugar instability.
These factors can influence mood, energy, motivation, and cognitive function. Identifying them can help guide more effective and personalized care.
Key Biomarkers Linked to Depression
Inflammation Markers
Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the most studied biological links to depression. Common markers of inflammation include C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Higher levels of these markers are often seen in people with persistent depressive symptoms. Inflammation can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.
Hormones and Stress Markers
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is often dysregulated in depression. Some people have chronically elevated cortisol, while others show flattened daily rhythms.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) and Free T4 (Thyroxine) are also important markers. Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, such as fatigue, low mood, and brain fog.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Certain nutrients are essential for brain function and neurotransmitter production. Common deficiencies linked to depressive symptoms include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and ferritin. Low levels of these nutrients in your body can lead to fatigue, low motivation, irritability, and cognitive issues.
Metabolic and Blood Sugar Markers
Blood sugar instability can affect your mood and energy levels. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels are markers often reviewed when blood sugar levels fluctuate. Insulin resistance is linked to higher depression rates. This is especially true for those facing chronic stress or living sedentary lives.
Lipids and Brain Health
Healthy fats are essential for brain structure and signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have been linked to improved mood in some people. Imbalanced lipid profiles may affect brain inflammation and neurotransmitter function.
Biomarker | Common Markers Tested | Why It Matters for Depression |
Inflammation | C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, TNF-alpha | Chronic inflammation is often elevated in people with depression and can affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. |
Stress Hormones | Cortisol | Long-term stress can disrupt cortisol levels, affecting sleep, energy, and emotional resilience. |
Thyroid Hormones | TSH, Free T3, Free T4 | Thyroid imbalances can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, including fatigue and low mood. |
Vitamin D | 25-hydroxyvitamin D | Low vitamin D levels have been linked to depressive symptoms and reduced emotional well-being. |
B Vitamins | Vitamin B12, Folate | These nutrients support brain function and neurotransmitter production; deficiencies may worsen mood and cognition. |
Iron Status | Ferritin, Serum Iron | Low iron stores can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and low motivation. |
Metabolic Health | Fasting glucose, HbA1c, Insulin | Blood sugar instability and insulin resistance have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms. |
Lipids & Fats | Omega-3 fatty acids, Cholesterol | Healthy fats support brain structure and signaling; imbalances may affect mood and inflammation. |
What a Blood Test Can Reveal?
Blood testing does not diagnose someone as depressed or not. It cannot replace a mental health diagnosis nor measure your emotions or thoughts. Testing your blood can identify biological causes of your symptoms and show conditions that might worsen or look like depression. Blood tests can also show why some treatments don't work, so your psychiatrist and psychologist can make a tailored lifestyle and treatment plan for you.
Who Should Consider Mental Health Testing?
Blood tests are helpful for:
People with ongoing depressive symptoms
Those not responding to treatment
Individuals with fatigue, burnout, or brain fog
People interested in preventive mental health screening
Testing is especially useful when symptoms are vague or overlap with physical health issues.
How Blood Testing Fits Into a Depression Care Plan?
Blood testing works best when combined with clinical evaluation, therapy or counseling, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment when appropriate. Tracking blood test biomarkers over time also shows whether interventions are working and helps your doctor guide adjustments.
The Future of Depression Blood Tests
Research is moving toward multi-marker panels that look at patterns rather than single values. Advances in data analysis and artificial intelligence may improve how these patterns are interpreted.
The goal is precision mental health care that treats individuals, not averages.
How Mito Health Approaches Mental Health Testing
Understanding the biological underpinnings of depression can be a game-changer in managing your mental health. Research shows there are strong links between depression and biological factors, such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic changes.
With the help of blood testing, it can reveal factors that affect how symptoms develop, persist, or respond to any treatment for depression. This holistic approach, combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, paves the way for more effective and personalized treatment plans.
Take the first step toward a brighter future—take a comprehensive blood panel from Mito Health and empower yourself with the insights that can transform your mental health journey. Our comprehensive lab test checks biomarkers related to depression. Get your membership today to see a clearer picture of what’s happening in your body.
Resources:
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
Comments
How Can Blood Tests Help Diagnose Depression?
There's no one blood test that can say for sure if someone has depression. But it can help identify biological factors that may be causing symptoms.
Written by
Mito Health
Depression affects how you feel, think, sleep, and go about your daily life. In fact, it is one of the most common mental illnesses in the world, affecting more than 21 million adults in the U.S. every year.
A lot of people struggle to put their feelings into words, and often wonder if there’s a straightforward way to understand what’s going on. One question that comes up is whether a blood test can diagnose depression. The quick answer is no, there isn’t just one blood test that can tell you if you’re depressed. But that doesn’t mean a blood test isn’t helpful.
While it can't directly diagnose depression, a blood test can check for other issues like inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient shortages, and metabolic problems that might be contributing to how you're feeling. It really helps get to the bottom of what might be affecting your mood and can be an important step toward feeling better.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It can disrupt work, harm relationships, affect sleep, reduce appetite, and even be serious enough to lead to suicide.
For some, depression can last weeks, months, or even longer. There are many things that cause clinical depression, such as stress, illnesses, genetics, life situations, and even no reason at all.
Common Types of Depression
There are several depressive disorders such as:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): Persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
Postpartum depression: Depression that occurs during or after pregnancy.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression linked to seasonal changes, often in winter.
Bipolar depression: Depressive episodes that occur as part of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects people of all ages in different ways:
Persistent low mood
Loss of interest in activities
Fatigue
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Physical complaints like headaches or body pain
Oftentimes, symptoms of depression develop from a combination of factors instead of a single cause. It could be due to changes in brain chemistry, chronic stress or trauma, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, genetics, or lifestyle factors. Because both psychological and biological factors play a role, symptoms can vary in severity and duration across different life stages.
Can Depression Be Diagnosed With a Blood Test?
A doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist conducts a clinical assessment to diagnose depression. It can be diagnosed in several ways:
Clinical interviews
DSM-5 criteria
Mental status exams
Physical exams
Various questionnaires
Currently, there is no FDA-approved blood test that can confirm or rule out depression on its own.
Why Blood Tests Matter in Mental Health Care?
Depression not only affects the brain, but also the immune system, hormones, metabolism, and nutrient levels. Many people diagnosed with depression show signs of chronic inflammation, stress hormone dysregulation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and blood sugar instability.
These factors can influence mood, energy, motivation, and cognitive function. Identifying them can help guide more effective and personalized care.
Key Biomarkers Linked to Depression
Inflammation Markers
Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the most studied biological links to depression. Common markers of inflammation include C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Higher levels of these markers are often seen in people with persistent depressive symptoms. Inflammation can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.
Hormones and Stress Markers
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is often dysregulated in depression. Some people have chronically elevated cortisol, while others show flattened daily rhythms.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) and Free T4 (Thyroxine) are also important markers. Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, such as fatigue, low mood, and brain fog.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Certain nutrients are essential for brain function and neurotransmitter production. Common deficiencies linked to depressive symptoms include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and ferritin. Low levels of these nutrients in your body can lead to fatigue, low motivation, irritability, and cognitive issues.
Metabolic and Blood Sugar Markers
Blood sugar instability can affect your mood and energy levels. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels are markers often reviewed when blood sugar levels fluctuate. Insulin resistance is linked to higher depression rates. This is especially true for those facing chronic stress or living sedentary lives.
Lipids and Brain Health
Healthy fats are essential for brain structure and signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have been linked to improved mood in some people. Imbalanced lipid profiles may affect brain inflammation and neurotransmitter function.
Biomarker | Common Markers Tested | Why It Matters for Depression |
Inflammation | C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, TNF-alpha | Chronic inflammation is often elevated in people with depression and can affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. |
Stress Hormones | Cortisol | Long-term stress can disrupt cortisol levels, affecting sleep, energy, and emotional resilience. |
Thyroid Hormones | TSH, Free T3, Free T4 | Thyroid imbalances can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, including fatigue and low mood. |
Vitamin D | 25-hydroxyvitamin D | Low vitamin D levels have been linked to depressive symptoms and reduced emotional well-being. |
B Vitamins | Vitamin B12, Folate | These nutrients support brain function and neurotransmitter production; deficiencies may worsen mood and cognition. |
Iron Status | Ferritin, Serum Iron | Low iron stores can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and low motivation. |
Metabolic Health | Fasting glucose, HbA1c, Insulin | Blood sugar instability and insulin resistance have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms. |
Lipids & Fats | Omega-3 fatty acids, Cholesterol | Healthy fats support brain structure and signaling; imbalances may affect mood and inflammation. |
What a Blood Test Can Reveal?
Blood testing does not diagnose someone as depressed or not. It cannot replace a mental health diagnosis nor measure your emotions or thoughts. Testing your blood can identify biological causes of your symptoms and show conditions that might worsen or look like depression. Blood tests can also show why some treatments don't work, so your psychiatrist and psychologist can make a tailored lifestyle and treatment plan for you.
Who Should Consider Mental Health Testing?
Blood tests are helpful for:
People with ongoing depressive symptoms
Those not responding to treatment
Individuals with fatigue, burnout, or brain fog
People interested in preventive mental health screening
Testing is especially useful when symptoms are vague or overlap with physical health issues.
How Blood Testing Fits Into a Depression Care Plan?
Blood testing works best when combined with clinical evaluation, therapy or counseling, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment when appropriate. Tracking blood test biomarkers over time also shows whether interventions are working and helps your doctor guide adjustments.
The Future of Depression Blood Tests
Research is moving toward multi-marker panels that look at patterns rather than single values. Advances in data analysis and artificial intelligence may improve how these patterns are interpreted.
The goal is precision mental health care that treats individuals, not averages.
How Mito Health Approaches Mental Health Testing
Understanding the biological underpinnings of depression can be a game-changer in managing your mental health. Research shows there are strong links between depression and biological factors, such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic changes.
With the help of blood testing, it can reveal factors that affect how symptoms develop, persist, or respond to any treatment for depression. This holistic approach, combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, paves the way for more effective and personalized treatment plans.
Take the first step toward a brighter future—take a comprehensive blood panel from Mito Health and empower yourself with the insights that can transform your mental health journey. Our comprehensive lab test checks biomarkers related to depression. Get your membership today to see a clearer picture of what’s happening in your body.
Resources:
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
Comments
How Can Blood Tests Help Diagnose Depression?
There's no one blood test that can say for sure if someone has depression. But it can help identify biological factors that may be causing symptoms.
Written by
Mito Health
Depression affects how you feel, think, sleep, and go about your daily life. In fact, it is one of the most common mental illnesses in the world, affecting more than 21 million adults in the U.S. every year.
A lot of people struggle to put their feelings into words, and often wonder if there’s a straightforward way to understand what’s going on. One question that comes up is whether a blood test can diagnose depression. The quick answer is no, there isn’t just one blood test that can tell you if you’re depressed. But that doesn’t mean a blood test isn’t helpful.
While it can't directly diagnose depression, a blood test can check for other issues like inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient shortages, and metabolic problems that might be contributing to how you're feeling. It really helps get to the bottom of what might be affecting your mood and can be an important step toward feeling better.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It can disrupt work, harm relationships, affect sleep, reduce appetite, and even be serious enough to lead to suicide.
For some, depression can last weeks, months, or even longer. There are many things that cause clinical depression, such as stress, illnesses, genetics, life situations, and even no reason at all.
Common Types of Depression
There are several depressive disorders such as:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): Persistent low mood and loss of interest lasting at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
Postpartum depression: Depression that occurs during or after pregnancy.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression linked to seasonal changes, often in winter.
Bipolar depression: Depressive episodes that occur as part of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects people of all ages in different ways:
Persistent low mood
Loss of interest in activities
Fatigue
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Physical complaints like headaches or body pain
Oftentimes, symptoms of depression develop from a combination of factors instead of a single cause. It could be due to changes in brain chemistry, chronic stress or trauma, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, genetics, or lifestyle factors. Because both psychological and biological factors play a role, symptoms can vary in severity and duration across different life stages.
Can Depression Be Diagnosed With a Blood Test?
A doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist conducts a clinical assessment to diagnose depression. It can be diagnosed in several ways:
Clinical interviews
DSM-5 criteria
Mental status exams
Physical exams
Various questionnaires
Currently, there is no FDA-approved blood test that can confirm or rule out depression on its own.
Why Blood Tests Matter in Mental Health Care?
Depression not only affects the brain, but also the immune system, hormones, metabolism, and nutrient levels. Many people diagnosed with depression show signs of chronic inflammation, stress hormone dysregulation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and blood sugar instability.
These factors can influence mood, energy, motivation, and cognitive function. Identifying them can help guide more effective and personalized care.
Key Biomarkers Linked to Depression
Inflammation Markers
Low-grade chronic inflammation is one of the most studied biological links to depression. Common markers of inflammation include C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Higher levels of these markers are often seen in people with persistent depressive symptoms. Inflammation can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.
Hormones and Stress Markers
Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is often dysregulated in depression. Some people have chronically elevated cortisol, while others show flattened daily rhythms.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) and Free T4 (Thyroxine) are also important markers. Hypothyroidism can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, such as fatigue, low mood, and brain fog.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Certain nutrients are essential for brain function and neurotransmitter production. Common deficiencies linked to depressive symptoms include Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and ferritin. Low levels of these nutrients in your body can lead to fatigue, low motivation, irritability, and cognitive issues.
Metabolic and Blood Sugar Markers
Blood sugar instability can affect your mood and energy levels. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels are markers often reviewed when blood sugar levels fluctuate. Insulin resistance is linked to higher depression rates. This is especially true for those facing chronic stress or living sedentary lives.
Lipids and Brain Health
Healthy fats are essential for brain structure and signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, have been linked to improved mood in some people. Imbalanced lipid profiles may affect brain inflammation and neurotransmitter function.
Biomarker | Common Markers Tested | Why It Matters for Depression |
Inflammation | C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, TNF-alpha | Chronic inflammation is often elevated in people with depression and can affect neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. |
Stress Hormones | Cortisol | Long-term stress can disrupt cortisol levels, affecting sleep, energy, and emotional resilience. |
Thyroid Hormones | TSH, Free T3, Free T4 | Thyroid imbalances can cause symptoms that closely resemble depression, including fatigue and low mood. |
Vitamin D | 25-hydroxyvitamin D | Low vitamin D levels have been linked to depressive symptoms and reduced emotional well-being. |
B Vitamins | Vitamin B12, Folate | These nutrients support brain function and neurotransmitter production; deficiencies may worsen mood and cognition. |
Iron Status | Ferritin, Serum Iron | Low iron stores can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and low motivation. |
Metabolic Health | Fasting glucose, HbA1c, Insulin | Blood sugar instability and insulin resistance have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms. |
Lipids & Fats | Omega-3 fatty acids, Cholesterol | Healthy fats support brain structure and signaling; imbalances may affect mood and inflammation. |
What a Blood Test Can Reveal?
Blood testing does not diagnose someone as depressed or not. It cannot replace a mental health diagnosis nor measure your emotions or thoughts. Testing your blood can identify biological causes of your symptoms and show conditions that might worsen or look like depression. Blood tests can also show why some treatments don't work, so your psychiatrist and psychologist can make a tailored lifestyle and treatment plan for you.
Who Should Consider Mental Health Testing?
Blood tests are helpful for:
People with ongoing depressive symptoms
Those not responding to treatment
Individuals with fatigue, burnout, or brain fog
People interested in preventive mental health screening
Testing is especially useful when symptoms are vague or overlap with physical health issues.
How Blood Testing Fits Into a Depression Care Plan?
Blood testing works best when combined with clinical evaluation, therapy or counseling, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment when appropriate. Tracking blood test biomarkers over time also shows whether interventions are working and helps your doctor guide adjustments.
The Future of Depression Blood Tests
Research is moving toward multi-marker panels that look at patterns rather than single values. Advances in data analysis and artificial intelligence may improve how these patterns are interpreted.
The goal is precision mental health care that treats individuals, not averages.
How Mito Health Approaches Mental Health Testing
Understanding the biological underpinnings of depression can be a game-changer in managing your mental health. Research shows there are strong links between depression and biological factors, such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic changes.
With the help of blood testing, it can reveal factors that affect how symptoms develop, persist, or respond to any treatment for depression. This holistic approach, combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, paves the way for more effective and personalized treatment plans.
Take the first step toward a brighter future—take a comprehensive blood panel from Mito Health and empower yourself with the insights that can transform your mental health journey. Our comprehensive lab test checks biomarkers related to depression. Get your membership today to see a clearer picture of what’s happening in your body.
Resources:
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
Get a deeper look into your health.
Schedule online, results in a week
Clear guidance, follow-up care available
HSA/FSA Eligible
Comments
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Access to advanced diagnostics at discounted rates for members
Concierge-level care, made accessible.
Valentine's Offer: Get $75 off your membership
Codeveloped with experts at MIT & Stanford
Less than $1/ day
Billed annually - cancel anytime
Bundle options:
Individual
$399
$324
/year
or 4 interest-free payments of $87.25*
Duo Bundle
(For 2)
$798
$563
/year
or 4 interest-free payments of $167*
Pricing for members in NY, NJ & RI may vary.
Checkout with HSA/FSA
Secure, private platform
What's included
1 Comprehensive lab test (Core)
One appointment, test at 2,000+ labs nationwide
Personalized health insights & action plan
In-depth recommendations across exercise, nutrition, and supplements
1:1 Consultation
Meet with your dedicated care team to review your results and define next steps
Lifetime health record tracking
Upload past labs and monitor your progress over time
Biological age analysis
See how your body is aging and what’s driving it
Order add-on tests and scans anytime
Access to advanced diagnostics at discounted rates for members
Concierge-level care, made accessible.
Valentine's Offer: Get $75 off your membership
Codeveloped with experts at MIT & Stanford
Less than $1/ day
Billed annually - cancel anytime
Bundle options:
Individual
$399
$324
/year
or 4 interest-free payments of $87.25*
Duo Bundle (For 2)
$798
$563
/year
or 4 interest-free payments of $167*
Pricing for members in NY, NJ & RI may vary.
Checkout with HSA/FSA
Secure, private platform
What's included
1 Comprehensive lab test (Core)
One appointment, test at 2,000+ labs nationwide
Personalized health insights & action plan
In-depth recommendations across exercise, nutrition, and supplements
1:1 Consultation
Meet with your dedicated care team to review your results and define next steps
Lifetime health record tracking
Upload past labs and monitor your progress over time
Biological age analysis
See how your body is aging and what’s driving it
Order add-on tests and scans anytime
Access to advanced diagnostics at discounted rates for members
Concierge-level care, made accessible.
Valentine's Offer: Get $75 off your membership
Codeveloped with experts at MIT & Stanford
Less than $1/ day
Billed annually - cancel anytime
Bundle options:
Individual
$399
$324
/year
or 4 payments of $87.25*
Duo Bundle
(For 2)
$798
$563
/year
or 4 payments of $167*
Pricing for members in NY, NJ & RI may vary.
Checkout with HSA/FSA
Secure, private platform