There is not only one single cause of depression! It is known that there are biochemical changes and a biological vulnerability for depressed patients. We know that there is also a genetic influence that may cause depression: First degree relatives with depression are a risk factor for a depressive disorder.

However psycho-social factors have a big influence! According to the diathesis-stress-model of depression any kind of stressful event or unhealthy lifestile might trigger the onset of the disorder.

Possible triggers (causes for the onset) for a depressive disorder may include:

• Seasonal changes (see seasonal affective disorder)
• Death of a loved one / spouse
• Loneliness
• Loss of job / unemployment
• Chronic physical illness / chronic pain
• Moving house / loss of social contacts
• Chronic conflicts at work
• Marital problems
• Childbirth
• Chronic alcohol or drug abuse
• Certain medications
• Low self-esteem
• Being the victim of a crime or accident (see PTSD)
• Poverty
• Other possible causes..........

  Try to identify your individual triggers and make a list. Talk with your physician or psychotherapist and with your family and friends about these topics!