If you are currently suffering from some form of depression, do you understand the reason? We are all susceptible to some form of depression regardless of age, sex or lifestyle. If depression has struck you down for longer than two weeks, it is time you speak to a medical professional.

The causes of depression are not fully clear to the medical community, but nutrition and brain chemical imbalance are factors. Additionally, it is known that genetics can also play a role in depression. If you have a close family member who is depressed, your risk for developing depression is increased.

This does not mean that if your mother suffered from depression that you will get it too. There are other factors involved, such as age and gender. More women than men have depression, and the elderly may be more prone due to having lived longer and experienced more losses in life.

Some risk factors for depression:

Genetics:

Depression can be hereditary and run in families. Several suicides occurring in one family is not uncommon. Depression can exist in families with no history of depression.

Stressful life events can cause anyone to become depressed. Stressful events can be anything from financial insecurity and abusive relationships, to chronic health issues.

Gender:

Depression is slightly more common in women, but in general can occur in any particular age group, ethnicity or socio-economic group.

It is common for women to suffer from depression after giving birth. This is known as "baby blues" and is caused by hormonal changes. It is usually temporary, but if it lasts longer than two to three weeks, then treatment may be needed.

Age:

The elderly are commonly afflicted with depression for many reasons. This can be due to bereavement, retirement, financial problems, and chronic pain and disease.

Medications:

Some medications are also known to have depression as one of their many side effects. Some medications that can cause depression include, anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants.

How is depression diagnosed?

Depression is commonly diagnosed if five or more symptoms are experienced for a period of longer than two weeks.

Five symptoms of depression:

- Sadness.

- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.

- Loss of self-esteem and increase in feelings of despair.

- Reduced ability to concentrate.

- Thoughts of death or suicide.

If symptoms persist for longer than a fortnight, than depression is indicated. Other diagnostic tools include a range of tests including the Beck's Depression Scale Inventory.

While there are no lab tests for depression, blood testing will help to rule out other possible causes for why you are feeling depressed. This disorder can mimic other conditions. Therefore, ruling them out is important for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of depression.

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