To try and understand depression and its causes, researchers have considered genetics, hormonal flux and change (in females), adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), life events and grief, health problems, substance use, smoking, and more. All of these things can contribute to depression. What if it was in your control to reduce or eliminate your depression?
No one knows exactly what causes depression, and multiple factors likely contribute to this life experience. Negative family and social environment where someone may experience poverty, hunger, abuse, crime, conflict, violence, instability, unsanitary conditions, substance use, or neglect can contribute to depression. People who are unrealistic, negative, highly self-critical, codependent, or excessively anxious may experience depression. Severe or long-term illness can drain people of their physical and emotional energy and inhibit their ability to function. All of these factors can contribute to a depressed mood. Medication is designed to help people feel better, but some medications can actually cause depression or make it worse. Medications do not heal a person’s depression, yet they may help someone take the behavioral action that can heal their depression. Hormonal changes, exercise, diet, and even the changing seasons can cause fluctuations in one’s mood. Drugs and alcohol can cause chemical changes in the brain that reduce a person’s mood. Research has proven that people who smoke are predicted to be depressed. Stressful life events play a part in the onset or relapse of depression. Regular conflicts with others can reduce well-being. Other social and environmental stressors such as financial difficulties, retirement, unemployment, childbirth, loneliness, death of a loved one, and loss of a relationship can cause depression. or something important. In vulnerable people, these unpleasant life events may be enough to cause or worsen a depressive illness.
The positive thing about depression is that you can have direct positive impact on reducing or eliminating depression and feeling better all around.