Depression is a complicated medical condition that is based on a variety of biochemical abnormalities like serotonin and norepinephrine.
Causes of Depression
Abuse-past physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can cause depression later in life.
Medications--some drugs used to treat high blood pressure such as beta-blockers can increase the risk of depression.
Conflict-- depression may result from personal conflicts or disputes with family members or friends.
Death or Loss== sadness or grief from the death or loss of a loved one.
Genetics-- a family history of depression may increase the risk.
Major Events-- Starting a job, losing a job, getting divorced
Personal problems-- social isolation due to other mental or phyical illnesses (including obesity).
Substance abuse--nearly 30% of people with substance abuse problems also have major or clinical depression.
Chronic Pain--pain disturbs sleep, exercise, and your relationship, contributing to depression.
One thing is certain-depression is a complex illness with many contributing factors. The latest scans and studies of brain chemistry show the effects of antidepressants help us understand the biochemical processes involved in depressions. Health professionals will be able to make better "tailored" diagnoses and prescribe more effective treatment plans.
Diagnosis of Biochemical Depression
persistenty sad or empty moods, loss of pleasure in all activities, feelings of helplessness or worthlessness, persistent crying, thoughts of suicide, loss of memory or concentration, irritability. The doctor must consider these and other symptoms, along with a complete history.
