Causes
Depression isn’t a weakness or a character flaw. You cannot simply “snap out of” depression. It is an illness.
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Understanding the potential causes of depression, from genetic predispositions and chemical imbalances to life stressors and trauma, is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to individual needs.
01
Brain Changes
Depression occurs because of changes in your brain. Specifically, how your brain produces and absorbs neurotransmitters, the way the circuits within your brain work, inflammation, and how your brain is built. These changes can occur because you have a family history of depression, have had a life situation change or stressor, medications, drugs, alcohol, or certain medical conditions – such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, heart disease, and hormonal changes.
02
Runs in Families
If you feel depressed, but you have no idea why you feel depressed, it could be because you have a predisposition to depression. This can occur without any environmental reason for why your brain is changing. Depression tends to run in families and it could be beneficial to know if anyone in your immediate family has dealt with depression.
03
Adverse Life Events
Continuing difficulties in life can also increase the risk of depression; these include significant adverse life events such as the death of a loved one, extended unemployment, or an abusive relationship. This is further heightened for those that are already at risk because of genetics, development, or personal factors