Depression

What causes depression?

Many life factors can lead to clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, and it can impact anyone. It’s usually a combination of factors that leads to depression.

Certain environmental and physiological factors can increase your likelihood of developing this disorder. Some factors include genetics, personality, and environmental factors, such as a traumatic event. Other major life events, such as pregnancy, can cause depression.

Who has depression?

 Approximately 20.4% of the adult population in Washington State report having symptoms of depression.  The condition is common in females, who are twice as likely as men to suffer a depressive episode. Current reaseach shows that symptoms of depression are rapidly rising among teens and  young adults.  Other factors that influence depression rates include: racial/ethnic, income, and education. 

What are the core symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Loss of interest in activities
• Feelings of emptiness and sadness
• Fatigue
• A sense of restlessness
• Not sleeping enough or sleeping too much
• Changes to appetite 
• Weight gain or loss
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Trouble with making decisions or thinking clearly
• Suicidal thoughts- These thoughts differ from just thinking about death and persist for long periods. They may even lead to suicide attempts.
• Physical symptoms, including aches and pains, like cramps or headaches.