What are the Main Causes of Depression?
Depression is a common and serious medical illness. More than sadness in response to life’s hurts and heartaches, depression abides and can disrupt your life, affecting the way you think, feel and function. Untreated, depression can become a very serious health condition, unrelenting and debilitating.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and the 2nd leading cause of death for people 15-29 years of age. In other words, depression should be taken seriously.
If you suspect you or someone you love suffers with depression, we understand what you’re going through—and we can help.
What causes depression?
While a single, specific cause of major depression has not been identified, there are factors frequently appearing in the lives of people battling depression which may be causal, or at the very least, strongly contribute to their experience. Here are several things research suggests as main factors to consider:
Genetics
Your genes affect every part of your body, including your mood. Research has shown more than half of depression and bipolar sufferers have mood disorders in their family history. At the same time, it is important to note that not all sufferers have a genetic trail—so it can be a cause, but it isn’t always a cause.
Brain chemistry
Our brain is our most sensitive organ. It is impacted by everything we experience. Its chemistry changes with stimuli and response. Neurotransmitters are chemical substances which help different areas of the brain communicate with each other. When certain neurotransmitters are out of balance, it may result in symptoms we recognize as depression.
Female Hormones
It has been documented that women suffer from major depression about twice as often as men. Studies have also revealed that depression occurs most in women during their reproductive years, suggesting hormones play a causal role. Women are especially prone to depressive disorder during times their hormones are in flux—during their period, pregnancy, childbirth and post-partum. Additionally, a woman’s depression risk declines after menopause.
Life experiences
We all encounter stress in our lives, but heavy stressors—the death of a loved one, loss of a job, an unforeseen change in life circumstances—can have lasting impact. If the stressor is long-term, like dealing with a failing marriage or sever financial pressures, it can become overwhelming.
Another life experience factor is early childhood trauma. Studies have shown that experiencing trauma such as abuse, neglect or abandonment early in life greatly increases the risk of both depression and substance abuse as an adult.
Physical health (Including drugs and medications)
The mind and the body are clearly linked. Physical health problems can impact your mental health as well. The stress of chronic illness can trigger depression. In addition, certain medications— anticonvulsants, statins, stimulants, benzodiazepines, corticosteroids, and beta-blockers, for instance—can increase your risk of depression.
Psychological health
The way we react emotionally and the decisions we make during stressful events are based on our perception and perspective of the event and our abilities or coping skills to make healthy decisions in challenging circumstances.
Spiritual health
Spiritual health is a vitally important piece of the puzzle. It means viewing and interpreting all of life’s challenging circumstances through a Godly lens. The Biblical term for this powerful neurobiological concept, as the Apostle Paul describes it, is the renewing of our mind. This renewing of our minds brings peace that passes all understanding.
At Honey Lake Clinic, our experienced team of physicians, therapists and caring staff understand what you’re going through. We can help. Please call us at (888) 837-6577.
The very good news is that there is help available. Depression can be successfully treated, and many who suffer are cured on a daily basis. With proper care, symptoms of depression can be alleviated, allowing you to concentrate, think, and develop the spiritual and psychological skills which will renew and heal you.
A healthy mind, body and spirit defeats depression.
At Honey Lake Clinic, our experienced doctors and staff strongly believe that faith-based treatment, encompassing spiritual, physical and mental health, will provide you with the long-lasting tools and knowledge to live beyond depression.
