Depression is an illness, complete with physical, mental, social and emotional symptoms. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, depression affects approximately 6.7 percent of the U.S population over 18 in a given year.
You may be already aware of what depression looks like and what it feels like, especially if you or someone you love suffers from it. But what you may not know are some of the common causes of depression. Depression is caused by a variety (or combination of) factors, including physical, genetic and life experience influences.
The hallmark of depression is primarily a chemical shift in the brain, causing an individual to experience symptoms like profound sadness, restlessness, inability to concentrate, sleeping too much or too little, lack of appetite, lack of interest in hobbies or other activities that they used to enjoy, hopelessness and even suicidal thoughts.
Biological/Physical Causes of Depression
There are a lot of physical contributors to depression; depression is largely genetic, so you will see it commonly move from generation to generation in families.
If you are extremely ill (either acutely or for an extended period of time), it is common to experience symptoms of depression.
Shifts in hormonal balance will often trigger episodes of depression, which is why you will see new mothers suffering from Postpartum Depression, as they deal with a hormonal imbalance after the birth of their child. Men experience the “Baby Blues” as well.
Both women and men suffer from depression, but more women are diagnosed with depression than men.
Some medications count depression among their side effects, like beta blockers, corticosteroids (used to treat arthritis), some drugs that are used to treat insomnia, anxiety and others.
Substance Abuse
Abuse of drugs and alcohol is often linked to depression. It’s hard to say which one precludes the other (it’s often a bit of a chicken and egg scenario). People who suffer from depression often turn to drugs or alcohol to help manage their emotional pain; the vicious emotional cycle continues, because alcohol and many drugs contain depressive properties, increasing the depth of an individual’s depression.
Traumatic Events
Experiencing a traumatic event, like physical or sexual assault, mental, emotional or sexual abuse can trigger depression- even years after the event takes place. Post-Traumatic Stress after a traumatic event is a major cause of depression.
Depression stemming from grief after the loss of a loved one is common as well. Grief is overwhelming; the natural sadness that comes with bereavement can develop into a more serious condition.
Life Pressures and Events
Divorce, loss of job, moving, retiring or conflict in relationships can cause depression. It’s also common for people under a great deal of stress, either professionally or personally to experience clinical depression.
Even “good” change, like graduating or receiving a promotion can create new levels of stress and set the stage for depression.
The good news is that, no matter what the cause of your or your loved one’s depression, there is help available. Support and movement towards healing are only a phone call away. To learn more about the causes of depression or to talk to a therapist call or contact us today at 202-641-5335.
