Depression and Its Main Causes

Introduction

Depression is an illness that is beyond human control. It affects the mind in a negative way and also influences the way we perceive and apply information in our lives. Cortisol is known as the ‘stress hormone’. Many children experience sustained stress, which leads to elevated levels of cortisol. However, the hormone that helps them cope with stress is not produced properly. If they are not getting this crucial hormone, they may be affected by depression. Depression has been reported to be more prevalent in females than males. Females often face stereotypes and societal suppression, which can contribute to this. Depression is influenced by society’s norms of normality and abnormality. Jahoda (1958) identified reasons why some 'abnormal' behaviors might lead to depression or other mental health problems. He mentioned factors like low self-esteem, toxic relationships, and instability in jobs and finances. Some people are more prone to depression than others; some can shake off negative feelings, while others cannot. Key components affecting depression can include genes, relationships, hormonal changes, and stress. The concept of abnormality and depression is closely linked, with society often impacting a person more than anything else. Approximately 6.5% of adults are affected by depression. Both medical causes and environmental factors can contribute to depression. There is no single reason or method to determine why a person might be affected by depression. It is challenging for doctors to pinpoint the primary cause of depression in an individual, but multiple psychological factors can aid in their improvement. This essay will analyze the main causes of depression.

Biological Components

First, the biological components affecting depression can be numerous. The prefrontal lobe of our brain, responsible for our decision-making, is where depression manifests. If our body doesn’t receive sufficient nourishment and our brain doesn’t get enough stimulation, we can slip into depression. Not eating a properly balanced diet can reduce oxygen levels in the blood, hindering the brain's ability to release coping hormones and resulting in major depression. In a case study of a man who suffered injuries to his prefrontal lobe, it was discovered that after the damage, he began exhibiting abusive behavior. Gage had never used abusive language until after the surgery. This case provides significant evidence, as before the accident he was soft-spoken, but afterwards, his speech became abusive, shocking everyone. This was the first case where doctors observed the relationship between speech and the frontal brain. Most of his language became filled with pornographic language, and women were advised not to remain in his presence. Neurotransmitters, responsible for carrying messages through cells, play a crucial role in our mood changes. If depression runs in a family, genes might also affect the neurotransmitters involved in transmitting depression. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been found in high levels in people with depression, illustrating the link between stress and depression. Another hormone associated with depression is serotonin. The chemical balance of serotonin can also contribute to depression, though identifying the components causing this imbalance is challenging. To determine this chemical imbalance, doctors use scans like PET and fMRI. They can assess the size of the hippocampus or the mood's impact on the brain. People with depression have been reported to have a smaller hippocampus. Problems in the hippocampus can result in memory issues and potentially lead to amnesia.

Cognitive Factors

Second, the cognitive factors affecting depression are rooted in the brain. Negative self-talk, such as telling ourselves we are not good enough or harboring insecurities, can lead to depression. People with low self-esteem are more susceptible to depression. If individuals work on reducing their insecurities, they may prevent themselves from falling into depression. Support from peers and loved ones is crucial during these times. While it's not certain that people who think negatively will develop depression, promoting positive thinking could be a remedy. The social and cultural factors contributing to depression are diverse. The loss of a relative, unemployment, and domestic abuse are some examples. The root of many issues lies in childhood trauma, which can have lifelong effects. Symptoms of depression include weight loss, lack of appetite, emotional numbness, isolation, fatigue, and easy exhaustion (Murphy et al., 1967). Different cultures influence depression differently, each with its own norms of abnormality. For instance, some cultures accept dating, while others do not. Conservative societies are reported to have higher rates of depression compared to more open ones.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Another factor contributing to depression is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is easy to identify someone experiencing PTSD when they struggle to participate in daily activities. Traumatic events can trigger PTSD, making it difficult for individuals to cope. Symptoms of PTSD include nightmares, lack of concentration, flashbacks, zoning out, migraines, sleeping problems, panic attacks, eating or digestion issues, and anger problems. Loneliness and troubled personal relationships can also contribute to depression. For instance, if someone experiences stress from school or work, their brain might send negative signals, causing them to lose hope and struggle with their tasks. Stressors like poverty can lead to low self-esteem, criminal behavior, and health issues. Stressors like these can be mitigated in schools and workplaces by awarding children or raising employee salaries. Adolescents often face depression during puberty due to body and hormonal changes, which significantly impact their lives. This can result in sleep loss, lack of focus, and is most common between ages 12 to 18. For example, if a 10-year-old announces in class that he is gay, he might face bullying and trauma. To protect children from such experiences, parents sometimes withhold substantial knowledge, teaching them what is considered good or bad. In this situation, limited knowledge acts as a protective barrier, boosting the child's confidence among peers. However, in real-world situations, lacking knowledge about present realities can be detrimental. Many people commit suicide daily due to the inability to express their true selves openly.

Treatment and Conclusion

Depression can be treated using medication or various therapies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on the cognitive aspects of depression. Therapists work with clients to uncover the root of their problems and assist them with problem-solving tactics such as meditation, avoiding triggers, or returning to a normal routine. Other therapies include behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Talking therapies are beneficial as clients talk to strangers who are unaware of their past, allowing them to speak without fear of judgment. In conclusion, depression is an all-consuming condition. It can become so severe that individuals lose all sense of reality. However, with the support of family and friends and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, depression can be prevented.

References

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