According to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), there is no single known cause of depression. While evidence suggest that genetics and biochemical factors are at play, it is likely that depression results from a combination of genetic, biochemical and environmental factors. Identifying environmental factors that can trigger depression can help you take steps to remedy the situation, often with the help of psychotherapy, which the NIMH reports has proved effective for people with mild to moderate depression.
Relationship Problems
Relationship problems are a large environmental factor that can lead to depression, according to the website AllAboutDepression.com. Relationship problems can lead to a sense of isolation and/or loneliness, and this perceived or actual lack of social support can exacerbate or cause depression. The website points out, for instance, that women who are unhappily married, divorced or separated have higher rates of major depression than those who are happily married.
Loss & Change
A major loss or change can trigger a crisis, which in turn can lead to a depressive episode. This is particularly true if the change was unexpected, unintended or unwelcome. Examples of loss and change that can trigger depression include the loss of one's health, a job, a home, a spouse or even financial strain resulting from a loss of money. As an example, a CBS News article quotes New York University Medical Center psychiatrist Sudeepta Varma, who states that suicide rates tend to follow the unemployment rate. Suicide rates, therefore, increase during hard economic times.
Personal History
One's life path and the experiences that come with it can lead some to the point where a depressive episode occurs. According to AllAboutDepression.com, a history of childhood trauma or abuse can put you at higher risk for depression, as can a history of chronic pain and/or substance abuse.
