Where Does Depression Come From? Common Causes of Depressive Disorders

What am I doing with my life? Why do I even bother? Questions like these can pop into anyone’s mind—especially during times of stress—and you can slip into a sense of hopelessness.

The good news is that we can usually bounce back. We shift perspectives and move forward.

But what happens when we get stuck in our hopelessness? We have little optimism. We don't find pleasure in the activities that once lit us up. Life itself is exhausting. Some normal sadness has slowly transformed into depression.

But how and why does this happen?

A Few Basics About Depression

Over 264 million people across the globe struggle with some form of depression. And that’s only those who have been diagnosed.

The internal struggle with depression is intense, yet may seem invisible to those on the outside. Depression shows up in daily realities in ways like this:

●      Overwhelmed by negative thoughts, both about the world and yourself

●      Feeling of despair, sadness, and emptiness

●      Physically and emotionally drained

●      Feeling as if you have no purpose in your life

●      Sleep and digestive problems

●      Unable to experience enjoyment

●      Feeling detached or numb

●      The temptation to self-harm and/or self-medicate

●      Thoughts of death and suicide

Common Causes of Depressive Disorders

Your genes can definitely play a role. This process is not yet fully understood, though. However, if you have a family history of depression, that may mean you're more susceptible to it.

That said, a genetic factor often requires a trigger. The reasons listed below are just a few of many examples.

●      Your sex: The risk of depression is twice as high in women.

●      Particular medications: Do your homework any time you have a medicine suggested to you.

●      Your age: The older you are, the higher the risk for depression. Other factors like social isolation and/or living alone can increase this risk.

●      Loneliness: Speaking of social isolation, situations like the COVID-19 lockdowns no doubt sparked an increase in rates of depression.

●      Grief: Any type of loss—particularly the death of a loved one—can make depression more likely.

●      Physical illness: Chronic or serious illnesses are also very challenging to your emotional health.

●      Substance abuse: Roughly three out of ten people with drug or alcohol issues also suffer from clinical depression.

Major Events Can Lead to Depression

Dealing with any kind of painful or stressful experience puts you at risk for a depressive episode that can lead into a larger chronic problem. These events may involve family issues/conflicts or physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. In addition, any big change (even “happy” ones) may be enough to set the cycle in motion. Such transitions could include:

●      Moving/relocating

●      Job-related changes like getting fired, getting a promotion, retiring, etc.

●      Financial stresses

●      Starting at a new school, graduating, academic problems

●      Relationship shifts, e.g. getting engaged, getting married, separation, divorce, starting a family

●      Major changes to your daily life and routine (like a pandemic)

Depression Treatment is Available, and It is Life-Altering!

Recovery can feel like a distant reality when you’re in the throes of a depressive disorder. But it starts with a small step. Reaching out to a professional counselor is important. I’ve worked with so many people who are dealing with depression. I’ve seen them have their burdens lifted and their energy renewed.

The road to healing is paved with small shifts and practical steps. What seems impossible when you’re alone can become a journey to recovery. Even though it may not be a quick fix, I assure that you’ll be heard, supported, and understood.

Let’s connect for a free and private consultation to get things started.

Click here for more information on Depression Therapy