Depression is still not completely understood, especially with the alteration in the brain chemistry resulting to it. But there are several identifiable triggers for depression.
First, we have stress. There are many possible causes of stress, which can cause or worsen depression.
Then we have trauma. Persons may suffer PTSD or Post – Traumatic Stress Disorder from intense physical or emotional trauma or abuse can lead to long periods of depression and other psychological difficulties.
Reduced sun exposure is said to play a role in depression. There were cases wherein people experience decreased mood during winter months.
Genetics can also be a factor in depression. But it doesn’t mean that you are vulnerable to the problem if you have one or more relatives who suffered the condition.
There are diseases that can cause depression, like hypothyroidism, which is caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone.
Changes in body levels of some substances can precipitate depression. For instance, when the levels of estrogen in women and testosterone in men decline, they may experience mood swings and depression together with some physiological changes.
Contentment in numbers. A recent survey reveals that the happiest women in terms of life and look are those with size 14. This may explain why Nigelia Lawson and Kate Winslet look so happy with their lives.