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Causes of Depression
It's natural for people to want a clear 'reason'
for an illness, but like many other serious diseases
depression can strike without any obvious trigger.
Depression is usually the result of a complicated
process involving genetic, psychological and environmental
factors.
Biochemistry.People who suffer from depression often
have lower levels of some neurotransmitters -
the chemicals that transmit messages between brain
cells. Serotonin and noradrenaline are the neurotransmitters
most likely to be involved in depression and anxiety
disorders. Reduction in serotonin and noradrenaline
can result in a low mood, motivation and sex drive,
as well as changes in appetite and sleep.
Genetics. Depression,
like many other illnesses, tends to run in families.
However, many people who have a strong history
of depression in their families are never troubled
by the disorder themselves, and some people who
suffer from the illness have no family history.
Social and environmental.
Adverse life events such as divorce, serious
illness or multiple misfortunes may contribute
to depression. Everyday stress can have a negative
effect on the body and contributes to a range
of diseases including heart disease, the common
cold and depression. Continuous exposure to violence,
neglect, abuse or poverty might trigger depression
in people who are already vulnerable to the illness.
Traumatic childhood experiences such as abuse
or distressing separation from parents or family
may predispose some people to depression in later
life.
Medical illnesses. A
number of medical events and conditions, such
as strokes, heart attacks, cancer, chronic pain,
diabetes, hormonal disorders and terminal illness
can lead to depressive illness. People with underlying
medical conditions, who are experiencing symptoms
of apathy or inability to care for their physical
needs, should talk to their doctor. These symptoms
may be related to the medical condition, or reflect
co-existing major depression which needs to be
treated in its own right.
Personality. Some features
of personality, such as pessimism, low self-esteem,
negative thinking patterns, excessive worry, or
a feeling of lack of control, might contribute
to depression.
Medication, alcohol.
Some medications can cause depression. For more
information, you should talk to your doctor. Excessive
alcohol consumption can also contribute to depression.
Our understanding of the causes of depression
continues to evolve. It is important to remember,
though, that the illness has affected people throughout
history, whether young or old, rich or poor, famous
or unknown.
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