Causes Of Depression

There are several possible causes of depression. Early childhood trauma can cause depression. This is because some events impact the way the body reacts to fear and stressful situations. Some people develop depression because of their genetics. You are more likely to develop it if you have a family history of depression or another mood disorder.

Other common causes include:

• brain structure: there's a greater risk for depression if the frontal lobe of your brain is less active
• medical conditions, such as a chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• a history of abusing drugs and alcohol

Many other people will have no discernable cause for their depression.

About of people who have a substance abuse problem also experience depression. In addition to these causes, other risk factors for depression include:

• low self-esteem or being self-critical
• personal history of mental illness
• certain medications
• stressful events, such as loss of a loved one, economic problems, or a divorce