What Causes & Treated Depression ?

Depression isn’t a simple condition with a known cause. Some people are more susceptible to depressive episodes while others are not.
It’s important to discuss symptoms with your doctor. There are several possible causes of depression.

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Genetic:

Depression may be an inherited condition. You may have a higher likelihood of experiencing a depressive disorder at some point in your life if you have a family member with depression. The exact gene involved in this is unknown.

Biochemical:

Some people have noticeable changes in their brains with depression. Even though this potential cause isn’t understood, it does suggest that depression starts with the functioning of the brain. Similarly, some psychiatrists look at brain chemistry with cases of depression.

Neurotransmitters in the brain specifically serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine affect feelings of happiness and pleasure and may be out of balance in people with depression. Antidepressants work to balance these neurotransmitters, mainly serotonin. Why these neurotransmitters get out of balance and exactly what role they play in depressive states isn’t fully understood.

Hormonal:

Changes in hormone production or functioning could also lead to the onset of depressive states. Any changes in hormone states including menopause, childbirth, thyroid problems, or other disorders could cause depression.

With postpartum depression, mothers develop symptoms of depression after the birth of their child. While it’s perfectly normal to be emotional because of the changing hormones, postpartum depression is a serious condition.

Seasonal:

As the daylight hours get shorter in the winter, many people develop feelings of lethargy, tiredness, and a loss of interest in everyday tasks. Called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, this condition usually goes away once the days get longer.
Your doctor may prescribe medication and/or a light box to help treat SAD.

Situational:

Any time of trauma, big change, or struggle in life can trigger a case of depression. Losing a loved one, being fired, having financial troubles, or undergoing a serious change can have a big impact on people.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a form of depression that occurs after a serious situation in life. PTSD is often diagnosed in soldiers returning from war. It can also occur as a result of:

·     childhood trauma

·         -seeing something life-changing and scary

·         - being abused or assaulted

·         - a serious car or other accident

·         -being diagnosed with a life-threatening condition

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