Although the causes of depression remain largely unknown, it is believed that certain genes and behaviors play a role in developing the disorder. Depression can run in families, with relatives of people who suffer from the condition being more likely to suffer from the disorder themselves. Some studies also indicate that genes may interact with environment to cause various types of depression. However, there is no single “depression gene,” so it is difficult to draw any definitive conclusions. Nevertheless, there are several risk factors for depression.
One of the most important factors in fighting depression is getting regular exercise. Exercise helps you to burn calories and boosts your mood. But it’s also necessary to be active, as exercise helps to release endorphins. People suffering from depression should join a gym or join a community sport to keep in shape. Alternatively, if you’d prefer, you can take up individual sports. If you’re not into sports, don’t worry – there are many free gyms in most cities.
If symptoms persist, doctors can diagnose the illness using standardized screening tools. Those screening tools include the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), which is a survey of nine items. Doctors can also order blood tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions that can cause depression, which would alleviate many of the symptoms of the disorder. Your healthcare professional will also explore your medical history, cultural and environmental factors, as these can contribute to depression. If you’re not getting any help from a doctor, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy.
Some of the risk factors for depression include long-term unemployment, abusive relationships, and prolonged exposure to stressful situations. Major life changes, such as a divorce or a death, can cause someone to feel depressed. Likewise, chronic illness or a serious illness can cause a person to feel hopeless, and this can lead to the onset of depression. In all cases, a good mental health plan is essential for preventing depression. But there is no one “cure” for depression.
The causes of depression vary widely. It isn’t one specific event that triggers depression. Instead, it is a combination of various factors. Depression runs in families, and some people are genetically predisposed to depression. It is also thought that drug and alcohol use may be a factor. In fact, many people who suffer from depression have problems with these substances. When the causes of depression are not known, treatment may not be effective for people suffering from the condition.
A person suffering from depression should seek help as soon as possible. Depression affects people’s mood, thinking patterns, and behaviors, and can cause a wide variety of physical and emotional problems. People with depression may feel depressed all of the time, and are unlikely to engage in normal daily activities. While it may take some time to recover from the symptoms of depression, seeking treatment early can help prevent these symptoms from becoming more severe. In addition, it is important to consider what type of treatment would be most appropriate.