Causes of Depression

It is thought that the

cause of depression

is from a chemical imbalance in the brain and when certain events happen in one's life, depression is triggered. Depression can also be inherited and may be passed down for generations. If that is the case many people are born with the problem and are just not aware of it until later on in life. Different events that trigger the onset of depression are the loss of a loved one, divorce, other physical illnesses, abuse (physical, mental, or sexual), childbirth, stress, and other problems. In children it can be triggered from peer pressure as well as many of the already mentioned factors. It is also said that it can just happen with no apparent factor to cause it.

The

symptoms of depression

are feeling tired, lack of interest in everyday things and hobbies, cannot concentrate or make decisions, weight disorder (loss or gain 5 or more pounds per week), loss of appetite or eating more than usual, sleep disorder (trouble sleeping or sleeping too much), restlessness, anger or rage, withdrawal from activities, lethargic or hyperactive, rapid mood swings, low self-esteem, thoughts of death or suicide, and sadness or irritability. If you are suffering from one or more of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek a doctors help as soon as possible. The sooner you begin treatments and/or medications, the sooner you will be back on track again. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of so do not be afraid to seek help. At least 16% of all Americans suffer from Depression of some form and can be helped if they only seek help. We can not stop the chemical imbalance so we need assistance from a professional.

The different forms of depression will determine the medication, therapy, or alternative medicines, and self-help. There are many anti depressants (name brands and generic brands such as Prozac, Wellbutrin, Paxil, and many more) on the market and you may have to try a few before the doctor finds the right one for you. What works well for some does not work for others and there may be undesirable side effects. There are also alternative medicines like Hypnotherapy, Clarocet, Kava Kava, Passion Flower, Valarian Root, Hyperforin, and St. John's Wort. If you prefer the alternative medicines, talk to your doctor about them. Many times the alternative medicines do not have the side effects that manmade medicines have and can help just as much. It is a matter of preference. For some who cannot take medications for some reason or another, the doctor may suggest Hypotherapy. It has been known to help a lot. The main important thing is to seek the help of a doctor if you suspect that you have depression so they can get you started on the road to recovery as soon as possible. It will take time because there is no overnight cure.