According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than 20 million people suffer from depression. Depression can be triggered by a number of factors. Research from the NIH and National Institutes of Mental Health as late as 2008 indicates that depression may result from a combination of physiological events in the body as well as outside influences. Knowledge of depression "triggers" empowers a person to recognize the stimuli present in his world, and in his body, in order to prevent depression taking hold in his life.
Chemical Imbalance
The National Institute of Mental Health in 2008 performed extensive studies on the relationship between the brain's chemical balance and incidence of depression. Ellen Leibenluft, M.D., of the NIMH states there is a relationship between depression and the brain's chemicals. The chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, are serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, and are responsible for stabilizing moods. When an imbalance in these neurotransmitters occurs, the body cannot optimally perceive happiness or a sense of well-being. While positive thinking will not prevent all forms of depression from presenting its challenge, it does promote a healthier mental state. Chemical imbalances leading to depression are easily treated with medications or natural therapies. A patient should discuss the available options with her doctor.
Career Stress
Workplace stress can trigger depression in an otherwise healthy individual. According to the Department of Labor at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a relationship exists between job-related stress and depressive episodes. Stress from work affects personal lives and vice versa, and many companies encourage participation in physical activity as well as relaxation therapies to keep workers healthy.
Personal Issues
Family and relationship issues are often triggers for depressive episodes. These relationships are important to the life health of an individual and imbalances promote feelings of sadness, anger and insecurity. The same can be said of financial matters. When anxiety exists in financial security, or a looming debt, depression can again find an incubator. Job loss, death of a loved one, separation and divorce may cause seemingly insurmountable feelings of despair and anger. Without treatment, or at least some guidance, depressive episodes can become unhealthy and unmanageable and affect others around you.
