Development of Mixed Anxiety/Depression-Like State as a Consequence of Chronic Anxiety: Review of Experimental Data

Abstract

The review presents experimental data considered from the point of view of dynamic changes in the brain neurochemistry, physiology, and behavior of animals during the development of mixed anxiety/depression-like disorder caused by chronic social stress from norm to severe psychopathology. Evidences are presented to support the hypothesis that chronic anxiety rather than social defeat stress is an etiological factor in depression. The consequences of chronic anxiety for human health and social life are discussed.

Keywords: Anhedonia; Chronic anxiety; Chronic social defeat stress; Mice; Mixed anxiety/depression-like state; Sensory contact model; Serotonin.