✨ Introduction
As a BA Psychology student dreaming of becoming a clinical psychologist, I’m always curious about how trauma changes the brain. Recently, I discovered SGK1—a gene that silently shapes how we respond to early stress.
🔬 What Is SGK1?
- SGK1 (Serum/Glucocorticoid-Regulated Kinase 1) is a stress-responsive gene.
- It becomes active when the body releases cortisol during trauma or fear.
- High, long-term SGK1 activity can disrupt mood regulation pathways.
😞 How Trauma Affects SGK1
- Early trauma increases SGK1 levels in the brain.
- Overactive SGK1 changes how neurons communicate.
- This creates vulnerability to depression, emotional numbness, and overthinking.
- Research shows SGK1 influences the hippocampus—our memory and emotional learning center.
🌱 Why SGK1 Matters for Future Therapists
Understanding SGK1 helps students like me see that trauma-linked depression is not “mental weakness”—it is biological reshaping of the brain.
This opens doors for personalized treatments, trauma-informed therapy, and preventive care.
💡 Empowering the Brain
- Therapy and early intervention can reverse biochemical changes.
- Sleep, nutrition, and mindfulness regulate cortisol and support SGK1 balance.