Why People Get Depressed

Within in any two-week period, 5.2 percent of U.S. residents older than 12 years of age will develop depression, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Depression stems from unknown origins or from other maladies. The factors range from stress and sickness to genetics and biology.

Combination of Factors

• Scientists believe that environmental and psychological factors combine to cause people to get depressed.

Chemical Imbalance

• Depression sometimes results from an imbalance of hormones in the brain, specifically the hormones responsible for mood regulation.

Major Life Events

• Abnormal amounts of stress trigger depression in some. A family member's death, job loss and relationship changes are common contributors.

Heredity

• Scientists believe that a family history of depression predisposes people to depression. If you have a family member who suffers from frequent depression, you're more likely to develop depression as well.

Hormones

• One reason why women become depressed more than men is because of hormonal fluctuations. Conditions such as pregnancy, pre-menstrual syndrome, childbirth and menopause can all trigger depression.

Illnesses

• Major illnesses that result in drastic life changes can cause some people to become depressed.