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Health Conditions

Depression

What causes it?

Depression is thought to be due to a combination of mental and physical factors; although it may also occur (or reoccur) at any time for no obvious reason. Some individuals appear to be genetically predisposed to depression and may, therefore, have a family history of it. Other factors involved in the development of clinical depression can be related to:

  • extreme stress
  • trauma
  • physical illness
  • environmental conditions

Clinical depression also can occur if some of the chemicals in your brain are not functioning effectively. A decrease in the amount of the following chemicals in your brain can affect your mood:

  • dopamine
  • norepinephrine
  • serotonin

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.

  Learn About

Introduction

What is it?

What causes it?

Who has it?

What are the risk factors?

What are the symptoms?

How is it treated?

What is on the horizon?

References

  Health Risk Assessment

Feeling blue? Check out our depression checklist.



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