Some depression tends to run in families. Researchers believe that it may be possible to inherit depression, especially if it is bipolar disorder. Thus the cause of depression in this case may be the genes. Other factors, like stress at home, work, or school, can also be the cause of depression.
Major depression seems to run in families, but it may also develop in those people who do not have any family history of depression. Either way, major depressive disorder is usually associated with the changes in brain structures or even brain function.
People who are having low self-esteem, or those who are consistently pessimistic, or those that get readily overwhelmed by stress are also quite prone to depression. Physical changes in the body can also be the cause of depression. Research has demonstrated that stroke, heart attack, besides cancer, Parkinson’s disease, as well as other hormonal disorders can also be the cause of depression. A severe stressor which includes a serious loss, difficult relationship, or a financial problem can also be the trigger for a depressive episode. A combination of genetic, psychological, as well as environmental factors is often responsible for the onset of depression.
Studies have suggested that women tend to experience depression nearly twice as often as men. The cause of depression in this case may be hormonal factors; such as menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, or miscarriage, postpartum period, besides pre-menopause, and menopause. Women tend to face unique stressors like responsibilities both at work and home, single parenthood, besides caring for children as well as for aging parents.
Many women tend to be particularly vulnerable to depression after the birth of a baby. The hormonal as well as physical changes, besides the added responsibility of a new life, can be factors leading to postpartum depression in some women. A short period of sadness is common in new mothers; while a full depressive episode is not normal and may require intervention.