Cause And Effects of Depression

Cause And Effects of Depression

By: Jewel Rose Aguinaldo

Cause

Depression is an extremely complex disease. No one knows exactly what causes it, but it can occur for a variety of reasons. Some people experience depression during a serious medical illness. Others may have depression with life changes such as a move or the death of a loved one. Still others have a family history of depression. Those who do may experience depression and feel overwhelmed with sadness and loneliness for no known reason.

What Are the Main Causes of Depression?

Abuse.

Past physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can increase the vulnerability to clinical depression later in life.

Conflict.

Depression in someone who has the biological vulnerability to develop depression may result from personal conflicts or disputes with family members or friends.

Death or a loss.

Sadness or grief from the death or loss of a loved one, though natural, may increase the risk of depression.

Genetics

A family history of depression may increase the risk. It's thought that depression is a complex trait, meaning that there are probably many different genes that each exert small effects, rather than a single gene that contributes to disease risk.

Effects

The effects of depression may extend beyond a person's emotions and mental health. Depression can also affect a person's physical health.Depression is a complex mental health condition that causes a person to have low mood and may leave them feeling persistently sad or hopeless.

*Loss of pleasure in previously enjoyed activities

*Too little or too much sleep most days

*Unintended weight loss or gain or changes in appetite

*Physical agitation or feelings of sluggishness

*Low energy or fatigue

*Feeling worthless or guilty

*Trouble concentrating or making decisions

*Intrusive thoughts of death or suicide.

*Depressed mood on most days, including feelings of sadness or emptiness

Weight gain or loss

People with depression may experience appetite changes, which can cause unintended weight loss or gain.

Chronic pain

People with depression may experience unexplained aches or pains, including joint or muscle pain, breast tenderness, and headaches.

Heart disease

Depression can reduce a person's motivation to make positive lifestyle choices. Their risk of heart disease increases when they eat a poor diet and have a sedentary lifestyle.

Sexual health problems

People with depression may have a decreased libido, have trouble becoming aroused, no longer have orgasms, or have less pleasurable orgasms.

Trouble sleeping

People with depression may experience insomnia or trouble sleeping.

Outlook

Recognizing that depression can cause physical health problems can help a person to seek treatment and make changes to help manage their symptoms.