Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have found a connection between depression and loss of bone mass.

Loss of bone density in people suffering major depression had been documented but a direct link between the two conditions had never been established.

In the study, scientists induced a depression-like state in mice. The mice showed symptoms of depression such as a decrease in social interaction. After four weeks, the mice showed a dramatic bone mass loss including the hip bone and the vertebra.

The researchers found that depression caused secretion within the bone of noradrenaline, which has a detrimental effect on bone-building cells. Use of anti-depressants blocked the secretion of noradrenaline and thus halted bone mass loss.

Loss of bone mass is the leading cause of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.

Read more about the study here.