The occurrence of depression cannot usually be traced back to a single trigger. Many research findings suggest that depression is usually the result of a combination of several factors. Both genetic and environmental influences play a role.
Overall, those affected have a low tolerance for psychological and physical stress, which is also referred to as vulnerability. This vulnerability can be genetic, but it can also develop as a result of traumatic experiences or excessive emotional stress during childhood.
This particular vulnerability then plays a decisive role in the onset and maintenance of depression. If this predisposition encounters a specific trigger, there is a risk that a depressive episode will develop. Triggers are usually personally stressful events or situations of excessive demands, such as the loss of a loved one, divorce/separation, excessive workload or simply changes in lifestyle, such as retirement.
It has been proven several times that permanent stress and shocking life events lead to neurobiological reactions.
Such a reaction can be, for example, an increased release of the stress hormone cortisol, which can also be measured in elevated concentrations in the blood in cases of depression.
At a neurological level, depression can be described in simple terms as a change in the neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Certain neurotransmitter systems (e.g. the serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline circuits) become unbalanced.
Other factors that play a role in the onset of depression can be attributed to the personality of those affected.
How we have learned to deal with stress, how much support we receive in overcoming challenges, how secure we feel in relationships, and how we view our self-worth – much of this was established during our childhood and, ideally, can strengthen us in difficult situations or have an unfavourable effect on our response to (mental) stress.
Physical illnesses such as chronic pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease and dementia, as well as certain medications, can also play a role in triggering depression.
You can find more information about possible risk factors, early signs and treatment for depression in our digital psychotherapy programme edupression. Become an expert on your condition and let us accompany and support you on your journey.
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