Where depression comes from?

Feeling down is a normal part of life. Sad and upsetting events occur for everyone, and these can result in feeling low for a while. Depression occurs when those low feelings last for a longer period of time.

Depression is a very commonly diagnosed mood disorder that can be experienced in different ways. When depression causes interference in your relationships, work, or school, it may indicate the need for treatment.

Depression symptoms can include:

• Feelings like anger, irritability, and anxiety
• Feeling sad, hopeless, or worthless
• Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities
• Fatigue
• Thoughts of suicide
• Substance use
• Reduced sexual desire
• Difficulty concentrating
• Insomnia, trouble staying asleep, or sleeping too much
• Aches, pains, headaches, and digestive issues
• Thinking more slowly or talking slowly
• Changes in appetite

If you have been experiencing any suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. You can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Research indicates biology and environment both play a role in the cause of depression. Risk factors have been identified and help clinicians determine your risk or the likelihood of depression if you present with symptoms.

Common causes can include:

• Family history of depression. Those with a family history of depression or another type of mood disorder are at a higher risk of developing depression.
• Childhood trauma. Encountering trauma can impact the way you react to fear and stressful situations.
• Brain structure. Less frontal lobe activity is found in people with depression, but researchers aren’t sure if the lessened activity happens before or after the onset of depression.
• Medical conditions. Some medical conditions like chronic illness, chronic pain, insomnia, and others may contribute to depression.
• Drug use. A history of substance use may increase the risk for depression.
• Low self-esteem. Having a very loud inner critic or self-critical approach can contribute to developing depression.
• Certain life events. Loss of a loved one, divorce, financial problems, and other events can contribute to a risk for depression.

There are several diagnoses for depression, and presenting with symptoms different than those above can occur. Some generally good habits that can support you during periods of low mood are getting enough sleep, finding small things to do each day, exercise, eating well, and staying connected to friends and family. If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms and having difficulty coping, visit your doctor. Depression treatment can include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.