Although its very hard to lay a finger on something that causes depression, there are some many inter-related causes ranging from childhood and developmental events, environmental influences, genetic and biological factors, negative thinking, chemical imbalance in the brain, hereidity, relationships, unhealthy lifestyle just to mention a few of the numerous causes.
Depression is the most common response to life’s loss and trauma. We may feel very down When we loose our job, when there’s a break from our romantic relationship (Heartbreak) and so lots more. However this kinds of depression do not last long, as we walk through our feelings of discouragement and sadness, they gradually dis-appear. But in the acse of chronic depression, the symptoms persists and even gets worse.
As the cause of chronic depression are not known, many things are believed to be involved, they are inter relating, interacting or impacting each other.
Biological causes of depression (Genetics and heredity and Hormonal imbalances): Depression runs in families, but it is very difficult to determine how much of it is due to genetics and how much is due to environmental factors and influences. People whose relative have a record of clinical depression are at a greater chance of developing it themselves. Also one whose close relative has a medical history of bipolar disorder may also have an increased chance of developing major depression. Soon after delivery, there’s a rapid decrease in the oestrogen, cortisol and progesterone levels. Reason of these, they may develop postpartum depression.
Depression is by no means an inescapable fate.
Social and psychological causes of depression: These will affect those who are already vulnerable to depression biologically. People who have unsupportive families surrounding them are at a higher risk of having depression, those who feel lonely and isolated even in the midst of people are also at a high risk of becoming depressed.
Also stressful life events such as the loss of a loved one through divorce death… unemployment, illness or retirement will also cause depression. Childhood stress, sexual abuse family strife, turmoil and mental illness triggers depression. Personal traits like pessimism, low self esteem, introversion, negativity, unsure characters are very likely to become depressed
Medical causes of depression: A variety of diseases can affect the mood and lead to depression, brain illnesses such as The Parkinson’s disease, Multiple sclerosis, Alzhemiers disesase … Hypothyroidism, is a condition caused by low levels of thyroid hormone, so commonly contributes to depressed mood and fatigue that it should always be ruled out before depression is diagnosed. Health problems that cuase chronic pain (Arthritis) can also lead to depression.
Lifestyle factors: An unhealthy lifestyle such as a diet full of empty calories, drug use and excessive alcohol can trigger depression. Lack of exercise can put you at a risk, Junk food and sugary snacks can cause rapid changes in blood sugar, resulting in a temporary “high” followed by a crash. The same is true of caffeinated beverages. Certain vitamins and mineral deficiency has been linked to depression, This causes fatigue and sadness. Alcohol is a depressant that slows down brain activity,its particularly dangerous. Excessive marijuana use can also lead to depression.
These are just some of the cause of Depression… Just as there are risk factors for depression, there are also protective factors. A strong support system, an optimistic outlook, a sense of self-confidence, a rewarding work or family life and sense of control over your own destiny-all these things can keep depression at bay, even if you have a genetic predisposition for it…
