ADAA (Anxiety & Depression Association of America)
USAProvides education, resources, and support groups for anxiety and depression.
Visit adaa.orgSyntropic's Novel approach
Understanding depression beyond the “chemical imbalance” theory—exploring brain plasticity, innovative treatments, and the path to healing
Medical Disclaimer
At Syntropic, we believe in a future where depression is treated more effectively and compassionately, by working with the brain’s natural ability to heal. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this new approach, and we’re here to support the community every step of the way. Let’s bring light back into the lives of those affected by depression.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly called depression, is a serious mental health condition characterized by a persistently low mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and a range of emotional and physical symptoms. It’s not just feeling sad or “down.” Depression can affect how you think, feel, and handle daily activities like sleeping, eating, or working. People with MDD often experience feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep, and sometimes even physical pain. It is a very common condition worldwide, and it can have a huge impact on one’s quality of life and ability to function.
Moving Beyond a “Chemical Imbalance” – Depression and Brain Plasticity
For a long time, depression was explained as a simple “chemical imbalance” in the brain — often blamed on low serotonin. While brain chemistry does matter, science now shows the story is more complex.
Depression is closely linked to the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself, a process called neuroplasticity. Think of your brain like a network of roads. In a healthy brain, traffic can shift, and new roads can be built. In depression, however, the network becomes rigid — traffic keeps running along the same negative routes, making it harder to escape cycles of hopelessness or low mood.
Stress, trauma, and negative thought patterns can weaken the brain’s flexibility, locking it into these negative loops. One reason this happens involves something called the perineuronal net — a mesh-like “casing” that forms around certain brain cells as we mature. This net helps preserve important skills and memories but also makes it harder to form new connections. If negative or traumatic patterns get locked in, they can linger and fuel depression.
Rethinking Treatment: Restoring the Brain’s Flexibility
At Syntropic, we’re pioneering a new way to treat depression. Instead of just boosting serotonin or suppressing symptoms, our focus is on restoring the brain’s flexibility — its ability to adapt, rewire, and heal.
Through our research with the Institute of Science and Technology Austria, we discovered that a gentle 60 Hz light stimulation through the eyes can activate the brain’s own immune cells, called microglia. These microglia then begin to dismantle the perineuronal nets — the “cages” around certain neurons that limit the brain’s ability to change.
Once those nets are cleared, the brain regains a child-like plasticity, allowing it to form new, healthier connections without erasing old memories. This gives patients the chance to break free from the rigid thought patterns that drive depression.
Because this method works by harnessing the brain’s own natural processes, it may bring faster, longer-lasting relief — and without many of the side effects linked to traditional antidepressants, such as weight gain, fatigue, or low libido.
This is a new frontier in depression treatment: not just managing symptoms, but resetting the brain circuits at the root of the disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I thought depression was all about serotonin – a chemical imbalance. Is it not? ⌄
It’s true that serotonin (and other brain chemicals) are involved in mood, and many antidepressant pills try to adjust those. However, depression isn’t only about low serotonin. Think of serotonin as one piece of a bigger puzzle. We now know that how the brain forms new connections (neuroplasticity) is a major part of depression, too. Our approach targets that aspect, helping the brain rewire itself.
Does this new treatment mean I should stop taking my antidepressant medications? ⌄
No, please don’t stop your medications! If you are currently on antidepressant tablets, you should continue taking them unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Our technology is still in the clinical trial phase. We are gathering data to understand how best to use it alongside existing treatments. In the coming months, as we analyze the trial results, we’ll be able to give clearer guidance (backed by science and data) on how this treatment could fit into depression care. For now, consider our approach as something on the horizon. Not a replacement for anything your doctor has you on at the moment.
Where can I buy a Haven device? ⌄
The Haven device (our light therapy device) is not available for purchase yet. It will be for sale once we obtain regulatory approval and have all the clinical evidence in place to ensure it’s safe and effective for everyone. We know people are eager to try it, but we have to make sure everything is absolutely ready and vetted by regulators.
Are there any clinical trials I can join to try this treatment? ⌄
At the moment, we are not enrolling new participants in trials. We’ve finished recruiting for our two ongoing clinical trials. One trial is being conducted at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, and the other is at NYU Langone Health (Grossman School of Medicine) in New York, USA. If you’re interested in future studies, keep an eye on our website or newsletter; we will announce if new trials open up. We truly appreciate the interest and willingness of people to participate in research! In the meantime, if you’re seeking help for depression, please reach out to a healthcare provider or support organization (see below for some resources).
Support and Resources
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
USAOffers education, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Visit nami.orgABRATA
BrazilBrazilian non‑profit supporting people with depression and bipolar disorder (site in Portuguese).
Visit abrata.org.brPro Mente Austria
AustriaUmbrella organization for mental health services in Austria, with information and support (German).
Visit promenteaustria.atAware
IrelandNational organization supporting people with depression and bipolar disorder, plus their loved ones.
Visit aware.ie🔔
Crisis Support
If you’re in crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself, seek help immediately. (In the US, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.)
If you’re in crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself, seek help immediately. (In the US, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.)