What is Depression and it’s Causes?

A mental health condition which made by an overwhelming feeling of sadness, isolation and despair that affects how a person thinks, feels and functions is called depression. The state of mind may significantly interfere with a person's normal life and may prompt thoughts of suicide. 

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 7.6 per cent of people over the age of 12 have depression in any 2-week period. This is substantial and shows the scale of the issue.

Even the World Health Organization (WHO), agrees that depression is the most common illness worldwide and the leading cause of disability. They estimate that 350 million people are afflicted by depression, globally.

What are the causes of depression?

While the specific causes of depression are not completely understood and may not be down to a single source.

Depression is expected to be due to a complex combination of factors like:

Genetics

Biological - changes in neurotransmitter levels

Environmental

Psychological and social (psychosocial)

In some cases, people are at higher risk of depression than others; risk factors include:

Life events: This may include death, divorce, work issues, relationships with friends and family, financial difficulties, medical concerns, or acute stress.

Personality: Those with less strong coping strategies or early life trauma are more susceptible.

Genetic factors: Having a first-degree relation with the issue also increases the risk.

Childhood trauma: Any incident from the past.

Some prescription drugs: These include corticosteroids, some beta-blockers, interferon, and other prescription drugs.

Abuse of recreational drugs: Abuse of alcohol, amphetamines, and other drugs are strongly linked to depression.