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How Does Depression Affect Ageing? Unpacking the Accelerated Process

Research indicates that major depressive disorder can lead to accelerated biological ageing, with one study finding that individuals with depression appear biologically older than their chronological age. This occurs through increased "allostatic load"—the wear and tear on the body from chronic stress—which is exacerbated by repeated depressive episodes. Understanding precisely how does depression affect ageing sheds light on the condition's far-reaching impact beyond mental health, influencing physical and cognitive vitality over time.