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Depression Risks
There are no definite causes of depression. Sometimes the reasons why you are depressed aren’t even clear. But there are some factors that increase depression risks or the chances of a person to develop depression. These include biological factors, genetics and stress among others.
Medical experts believe depression has a biological component. This is because depression may also be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Depression has been linked to changes in the functioning or operations of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. For this reason, antidepressants like serotonin and dopamine are prescribed to persons suffering from depression.
However, it could also be the other way around. Depression could have caused the chemical imbalances in the brain.
Depression also tends to run in families. Usually, persons developing depression have a family member or a relative who also has the same condition.
Another most common depression risk factor is too much stress caused by stressful or traumatic situations such as:
Death of a loved one
Family conflict
Relationship problems
Financial problems
Health problems or illnesses
Work-related problems
Academic demands or school-related pressure
It is also believed that people with low self-esteem, people who are pessimistic and often problematic are at a higher risk of developing depression. Alchohol and drug use have also been cited as one of the depression risk factors. Thus, it is necessary to live a healthy lifestyle away from vices such as smoking, alcohol and prohibited drugs.
Take note that it is not necessary for you to identify the cause of depression to get treatment. However, it would help to know these risk factors to prevent an episode of depression or a recurrence.
These days, depression is considered relatively common. It is estimated that 12 million adults in the United States alone are suffering from depression each year. Although it can arise at any age, more common cases of depression begin in the late 20s. More women are diagnosed with depression compared to men, probably because women are more likely to seek treatment for the mental illness. Men also have some difficulties recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression.
If you know you are at risk of developing depression you can seek professional advice. You can also venture into activities that would help you battle stress like engaging in sports or regular exercise. Being with loved ones who understand what you’re going through is also one big step in fighting depression.
