"Minor depression is a common disorder that may impair a person's functioning and quality of life and is a serious risk factor for major depression."

"Some people who have not had a problem with alcohol use may be permitted by their doctor to use a modest amount of alcohol while taking one of the newer antidepressants."

Causes of Depression


Substantial evidence from neuroscience, genetics, and clinical investigation shows that depressive illnesses are disorders of the brain. However, the precise causes of these illnesses continue to be a matter of intense research.

Modern brain imaging technologies reveal that, in depression, neural circuits responsible for the regulation of moods, thinking, sleep, appetite, and behavior fail to function properly, and critical neurotransmitterschemicals that brain cells use to communicate are out of balance. Studies of brain chemistry, including the effects of antidepressant medications, continue to inform our understanding of the biochemical processes involved in depression.

In some families, depressive disorders seem to occur generation after generation; however, they can also occur in people with no family history of these illnesses. Genetics research indicates that risk for depression results from the influence of multiple genes acting together with environmental or other nongenetic factors.
Very often, a combination of genetic, cognitive, and environmental factors is involved in the onset of a depressive disorder. Trauma, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, a financial problem, or any stressful change in life patterns, whether the change is unwelcome or desired, can trigger a depressive episode in vulnerable individuals. Later episodes of depression may occur without an obvious cause.

"Although depression itself can lower libido and impair sexual performance, SSRIs and some other antidepressants can provoke sexual dysfunction."

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"Interpersonal therapists help patients work through disturbed personal relationships that may be contributing to or worsening their depression."

Things You Can Do For Stress Relief

"Health professionals who may prescribe a medication, such as a dentist or other medical specialist, should be told of all the medications the patient is taking."

Salt Stress In Plants

"Many people use St John's wort without consulting a physician."

Organizational Productivity And Job Stress

"Once the person is feeling better, it is important to continue the medication for at least four to nine months to prevent a relapse into depression."

Stress Health

"If you think you may be depressed or know someone who is, don't lose hope."