Causes of Depression

Today, most experts attribute depression to a combination of various factors, including biological and environmental factors. Depression also runs in the family. If one of the parents is depressed, the child has 25 percent chances of being afflicted with depression. This percentage goes up to 75 if both parents have a history of depression.

Scientists point to changes in the chemistry of brain that lead to depression, but the exact causes have not been identified. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that pass on messages between nerve cells. A change in these neurotransmitters can lead to depression, or associated conditions.

In some cases, traumatic life events, such as desertion, chronic illness, problems at school, abuse, neglect, or accidents can bring on depression. Death of a loved one or problems among parents leading to divorce may result in depression in children.