Depression can have a number of causes. The first step is finding out if one is afflicted by this “disease”. Sometimes depression runs in the family and it is very much possible for anyone to inherit this tendency for being depressed. The following are some of the causes of depression.
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 relatives 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.
Dopamine is the chemical that makes you feel good. It allows for feelings of euphoria and is also known as the “pleasure chemical“. In addition to these good feelings, you will find that dopamine is also found to help in anti-aging, so what better way to make sure you feel good and stay young than to work to ensure that you have enough of this chemical in your system?
Serotonin is responsible for maintaining a sense of well being. When you have enough of this hormone in your body, you are less likely to feel stressed or anxious. Having enough of this chemical in your body can help to ensure that little problems stay just that – little, so you will be able to tackle any problem as it comes.
Social and Psychological Causes of Depression
These will affect those who are already vulnerable to depression biologically. 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, Alzheimer’s disease. 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 cause chronic pain (Arthritis) can also lead to depression.
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