• Recent prospective studies suggest that thyroid state plays a role in affective disorders. A
lack of thyroid hormones can lower the threshold for depression; an excess can contribute to
a state of tense dysphoria. Thyroid function in some persons also appears to influence the
course of affective disorders. Adequate mobilization of thyroid hormones favors recovery
from depression; excess mobilization increases the risk of mania in vulnerable individuals.
Although other mechanisms may be involved, evidence suggests that the modulation by …