Causes of Depression

Some experts project that depression will become one of the top three most serious health threats worldwide within 10 to 15 years.  Therefore, it is very important to treat depression, but also to learn more about the causes.  Unfortunately, the causes of depression can be very diverse.  Many people experience forms of depression in many different ways.  For example, persistent stressful conditions, poverty physical or sexual abuse, chronic psychiatric illnesses, anxiety, substance abuse, and even some medications can contribute as causes of depression.  With this said, we take a look at some of the broader areas that can play a role: 

1.  Stressful events or occurrences: 

Stress can wreck havoc on your health in a number of different ways.  One such was is it can drive otherwise healthy people into depression.  Events that cause this situation could include a death of loved one, job layoff or firing, difficulty in business or personal relationships, highly stressful job or even major life changes.  The major life changes could be moving to a new place, turning 40 or 50, or avoiding a car accident.  The key here is to note that different events can bring on the depression. 

2.  Former family life or relationships 

Some times people experience depression because of things in their past.  This can range from family fighting to bad breakups.  Even something like a divorce or a childhood illness can linger causing people to later develop depression. 

3.  Abuse of all forms 

This subject can be quite extensive but it could include battle fatigue, child abuse, alcohol or drug abuse, or even living with those who had this type of abuse.  Many times, these issues are bottled up by the victims in early life and later come out in life.  The result can sometimes lead to depression. 

4.  Prescription drugs can also contribute. 

A number of different prescription drugs can bring on depression.  Some of them include diet pills, sleeping pills, accutane, oral contraceptives, corticosteroids and anti-cancer drugs.  The key here is to note that if you are experiencing any depression symptoms to review your prescription drugs and discuss them with your doctor.  It may be that a simple change in medication can help resolve the issue. 

Although this list is by no means exhaustive, it is a good starting point to review the likely causes of depression.  If you believe that you may be experiencing depression, you immediately consult your doctor or healthcare professional to start looking into possible treatment.  Depression should not be taken lightly.