Continuing from the previous article, this article discusses the causes, risk factors, how to diagnose, and how to prevent depression. But of course, what can determine whether a person is depressed or not is only related to health professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists.
Causes of Depression
There are several possible causes of depression, either for biological reasons or indirect causes. Common causes of depression include:
- Chemical activity in the brain
There is a chance that depression may occur from an imbalance of chemicals in parts of the brain that regulate mood, thoughts, sleep, appetite, and behavior.
- Changes in Hormone Levels
Changes in estrogen and progesterone hormones during different periods, such as during the menstrual cycle, postpartum period, perimenopause, or menopause, can all increase the risk of depression.
- Family history
The risk of developing depression is higher if you have a family history of depression or other mood disorders.
- Childhood trauma
Past traumatic events can affect the way the body responds to fears and stressful situations.
- Brain structure
There is a greater risk of developing depression when the frontal lobe of the brain is less active. However, scientists don't yet know whether this occurs before or after the onset of depressive symptoms.
- Medical conditions
Certain conditions can lead to a higher risk of depression, such as chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, stroke, heart attack, and cancer.
- Certain chemicals usages
A history of substance abuse, including alcohol, can increase the risk of depression.
- Pain
People who experience chronic pain, both physical and emotional for a long time, are more likely to experience depression.
Depression Risk Factors
Risk factors for depression can be biochemical, medical, social, genetic, or indirect. Common risk factors for depression include:
- Gender
The prevalence of major depression is twice as high in women as in men.
- Genetics
The risk of depression is higher in people with a family history of mental disorders.
- Social economical status
Socioeconomic status, including financial difficulties and low social status, can increase the risk of depression.
- Certain medications
Certain medications, including certain types of hormonal contraceptives, corticosteroids, and beta blockers, may be associated with an increased risk of depression.
- Vitamin D deficiency
Studies have linked depressive symptoms to low vitamin D levels.
- Gender identity
According to a 2018 study, the risk of depression for transgender people is nearly four times greater than for cisgender people.
- Substance abuse
About 21 percent of people with substance use disorder (drug use or illegal drugs) also have depression.
- Medical illness
Depression is associated with other chronic medical conditions. People with heart disease are about twice as likely to be depressed as those without, while up to 1 in 4 people with cancer may also be depressed.
Tests to Diagnose Depression
There is no single test to diagnose depression. However, related health professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists can make a diagnosis based on a person's symptoms and psychological evaluation. In most cases, they will ask a series of questions related to:
- Mood
- Appetite
- Sleep patterns
- Activity rates
- Thoughts
Because depression can be associated with other health problems, healthcare professionals may also do a physical exam and order blood tests. Examples include thyroid problems or vitamin D deficiency, which can also cause symptoms of depression.
It is important not to ignore the symptoms of depression. If your mood does not improve or worsen, see a health professional immediately, as depression is a serious mental illness with potential complications.
If left untreated, complications of depression can include:
- Weight gain or loss
- Physical pain
- Substance use disorders
- Panic Attack
- Relationship problems
- Social abstinence
- Suicidal thoughts
- Hurting yourself
How to prevent depression?
Depression is generally not considered preventable. This is because it is difficult to recognize what is causing it, so prevention becomes even more difficult. With a few tips below we can at least prevent the following depressive episode:
- Regular exercise
- Enough sleep
- Take medication regularly when prescribed
- Reduce stress
- Build strong relationships with others
Hopefully, we can be more aware of our mental health ladies!
Sources:
Albert P. R. (2015). Why is depression more prevalent in women? Journal of psychiatry & neuroscience: JPN, 40(4), 219–221
Higuera, V & Saripalli, V. (2021). Everything You Need to Know About Depression (Major Depressive Disorder). Healthline. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/depression
Razzak, H. A., Harbi, A., & Ahli, S. (2019). Depression: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in the United Arab Emirates. Oman medical journal, 34(4), 274–282
Witcomb, G. L., et al. (2018). Levels of depression in transgender people and its predictors: Results of a large matched control study with transgender people accessing clinical services. Journal of affective disorders, 235, 308–315