Researchers aren't entirely sure what causes depression. Most agree that is probably a combination of things much like what is believed about most mental disorders. Following is information about the major causes believed to contribute to depression.

Chemicals within Your Body

Studies have shown that they are physical changes in the brain during depressive episodes. It is not clear exactly what significance these changes have, but they do give some hint at the possible causes. Levels and receipt of neurotransmitters responsible for mood within the brain are seen to change greatly. Hormone levels often are seen to be imbalanced. Scan show that the brain physically changes when a person is depressed. It may be some time before scientists and doctors fully understand if the changes within the brain happen first or if they are a symptom of something else going on, but either way the physical change is proven. There is no doubt that part of the cause of depression is physical in nature.

In Your DNA

It is now widely believed that the propensity for depression is genetic. Studies have found that people with immediately family members who have suffered from depression are much more likely to suffer from depression themselves. Research is ongoing to pinpoint the exact gene that causes depression. It is important that people recognize depression for the illness it is not only to help themselves, but to be better armed to help their children and other relatives. It has been found that depression can lessen in intensity or duration or possibly even be averted all together if people are aware that they are susceptible and recognize the warning signs early on.

Your Surroundings

Many elements of a person's environment may trigger a depressive episode. Events that cause normal sadness often spiral out of control into clinical depression. Excess stress can make one vulnerable to depression. Any form of abuse at any point in your life can cause a depressive episode. Losing a loved one or being fired from a job can sometimes cause depression.  Financial difficulties can be a catalyst as well. While there is definitely an element from what is going on inside of you that causes depression, what is going on outside of you can be a factor as well. Correcting your environmental situation may be difficult, but it is a necessity if you ever hope to beat the illness. Depression by nature can make you feel your situation is hopeless or unavoidable starting a vicious cycle that can be terribly difficult to escape. It is important that you are aware your environment does play a role in why you are depressed and a role in your successful recovery, so find a way to change it no matter how difficult that may be!

The argument still exists whether depression is ultimately an illness caused primarily by nature or by nurture. Chances are it is some combination of both. While the exact cause of depression remains a mystery, the probably culprits are well known.  Being aware of all of these can be a tremendous help in detecting those who are most susceptible and intervening early should the disease ever surface.

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