The Primary Causes Of Depression

Many people have a clear understanding of why they become depressed. However, numerous others may find it difficult to figure out the reasons. As a problem, depression doesn’t have a single cause and results from a combination of different things. Depression can be caused by your genes, events of your past, your present circumstances, and many other conditions.

The most important point to remember is that clinical depression can affect anyone. It isn’t the fault of the individual or a flaw in the character. Rather, it is a problem that has the potential to affect anyone. However, regardless of the causes, there are numerous ways to deal with it.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds.” — Laurell K. Hamilton[/su_quote]

Biological Changes

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The medical fraternity is still unaware of what precisely happens within the brain when people become depressed. Studies have revealed that certain portions of the brain do not normally work in these conditions. The functioning of certain chemicals within the brain may also affect the changes that are caused by depression.

Genetics

If depression is a problem within your family, the chances of you developing depression are higher.

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Gender

Reasons about why women are twice as likely as men to become depressed are not available. However, it is a fact that the problem is more prevalent among women. The hormonal changes which women go through during various stages of their life would perhaps be playing a role.

Age

The elderly are at a higher risk of depression than young people. The problem could be compounded by factors such as living alone or the lack of social support.

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Health Conditions

Health conditions that cannot be cured can increase one’s risk of being depressed. The conditions that commonly lead to depression include the following:

• Cancer.
• Chronic pain.
• Heart disease.
• Thyroid conditions.

Trauma And Grief

Trauma like violence and physical or emotional abuse regardless of whether it is early or a recent phenomenon can trigger depression. It would be normal to be grieved after the death of a friend or a loved one. However, just like all other losses, it can on occasions delete to serious depression.

Stressful Events And Changes

Stressful events can leave people feeling sad or down, and this should not be surprising at all. A divorce or caring for the sick can be a stressful task. Many people are unable to handle the same effectively. Sometimes, even positive changes such as beginning a new job or getting married have the potential to trigger the syndrome of clinical depression.

Medications and Substances

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Prescription drugs that are recommended by doctors can also cause depression. Alcohol or substance abuse is a common factor among people who are depressed. It usually makes their condition bad by causing or worsening their moods.

People who are depressed are advised not to self-medicate because they may not realize the side effects of the medications. This is a job best left to the experts who are able to help them better. If you have recurring symptoms of depression, you should consider approaching a physician. He or she will be in a position to diagnose your condition and provide the necessary medication. You must also be prepared to discuss all issues that you could be facing or may have faced in the past.

It is also essential to understand the symptoms of depression. Problems like chronic pain or numbness and weakness in the arm, leg or face must not be ignored. These could be signs of a stroke, particularly if it is on one side of the body. Get help quickly if you are unable to see well, have a bad headache, are confused, or have problems comprehending information. These are problems which can be reversed easily but getting to a doctor is highly important.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“Depression begins with disappointment. When disappointment festers in our soul, it leads to discouragement.” —Joyce Meyer [/su_quote]

Quite a number of people are suffering from the problem of depression because of the stressful conditions we are living in. It would be helpful for everyone if they considered learning the symptoms of depression because it may prove highly valuable for them in times of trouble.