Causes of Depression

By Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN
updated on 11/19/2007 at 03:03PM

People who suffer from depression generally describe the condition as an overwhelming feeling of hopelessness and sadness, as if a black curtain hanging over their lives. Some people can experience depression suddenly as the direct result of a specific event. While others become depressed slowly over time. There are several types of depression, such as clinical depression, seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder. Each of these conditions may be linked to a unique cause or circumstance.

And although the exact cause of depression has yet to be determined, there are several factors that can greatly influence its development. The cause of depression differs from person to person, but biological, environmental, psychological and medical factors may all play some part. More often than not, however, multiple causes come together when someone becomes depressed.

Biological Causes

Doctors are still unsure why some people experience chemical imbalances in the brain while others do not. But whatever the reason, these changes in brain chemistry can lead to a state of depression. Research data indicates that people who suffer from depression tend to have imbalances in their neurotransmitters, namely serotonin and norepinephrine. Neurotransmitters allow the different areas of the brain to communicate with one another. Most anti-depressant medications aim to re-establish the chemical balance within the brain.

Another body chemical that might be altered in those who are depressed is the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is produced in the body in response to stress, anxiety, and fear. Normally, cortisol levels peak in the morning and gradually level off throughout the day. But for people who are depressed, cortisol levels don’t seem to decrease as quickly as they should. Researchers are still unsure if the increased levels of cortisol cause depression or if conversely, depression causes the overproduction of the hormone.

Genetic Causes

Depression often runs in families, which has lead many researchers to speculate that genetics plays some role in the development of the condition. If one or both of your parents suffered from depression, then you are much more likely to develop the condition yourself. Researchers are hoping to isolate the genetic markers that are associated with manic depressive disorder and other similar depressive conditions. This may someday enable researchers to better understanding the development of depression. In the meantime however, it does little to help treat the actual condition.

Psychological Causes

Other psychological conditions, such as adjustment disorder, may be associated with the development of depression. People who have eating disorders, anxiety disorders, difficulty handling stress, or poor coping skills may also have a problem with depression. Likewise, people with low self-esteem or a negative outlook on life may be more likely to become depressed. This may be another reason why depression tends to run in families. Children readily learn pessimism, discouraging thoughts, and negative self-talk from their parents.

Environmental Causes

Financial worries, problems at work, or relationship difficulties can result in depression. As can increased stress, trauma, a serious loss, or an unwelcome life change. However, no two individuals will react to a situation the same way, and some may become depressed while others do not. Depression may result from the inability to handle or control negative feelings regarding an unpleasant environmental condition.

Medical Causes

A chronic illness can be physically and emotionally draining. The despair and difficulty of undergoing treatment or suffering through harsh symptoms can easily lead to the development of depression. The side-effects of certain medications, especially those that alter your energy levels or state of consciousness, can also lead to depression. Similarly, substance abuse may also lead to depression as it depletes both the body and the mind of vital nutrients and energy. Talk with your health care provider if you’re concerned about the medications you’re taking. When depression does stem from a medical issue, it usually dissipates if and when the medical condition is properly addressed.

The Symptoms of Depression

Regardless of the cause of your depression, the illness affects your mind, your body, and your daily performance. Your health care provider will assess your symptoms as well as the cause of your depression when diagnosing your condition. If you experience at least five of the major symptoms of depression in the same two-week period, it’s likely that you are suffering a major depressive episode. The major symptoms include mood or personality changes, appetite changes, sleep disorders, lack of energy, loss of interest in sex, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal thoughts or tendencies.

Caring For Depression

Depression is a disease, but it can be treated. A combination of therapy and medications can make an enormous difference in the life of a depressed person. If you suspect that you may be suffering from depression, ask your health care provider to help you determine the best course of treatment, based on the pattern of your depression, its severity, persistence, and history.

Dr. Edward F. Group III continues to develop, sell and evaluate exclusively high-end natural and organic healthcare products to support a wide range of health conditions. Look for the product “Relaxyn” (a natural alternative to prescription anti-depressants and anti-anxiety meds) to be released in late 2006. For more information, please visit the Web's best resource on stress, anxiety and depression at www.stress-anxiety-depression.org or www.ghchealth.com.