Depression Therapy in Newcastle

Genetic factors

Depression has been found to run in families which would suggest a genetic component to it, however further research is required to confirm this. This is because it is possible that growing up in a household where a family member experiences depression may create a vulnerability to it as the person learns certain ways of behaving and thinking.

Brain chemicals

Some research has found that depression may be due to reduced activity between neurotransmitter systems in the brain. This leads to less communication between nerves in the areas of the brain, which regulate sleep, libido, appetite, and mood. There is some evidence to suggest that medication can address this chemical imbalance but the evidence supporting this theory is weak as it is unclear whether the imbalance is the cause of depression or a result of it.

Thinking patterns

Negative thinking patterns are related to depression. When a person’s thinking style is excessively negatively and rigid it impacts the way the person feels and then what they do. This can then lead to a viscous cycle.

Childhood experiences

Childhood experiences-Research has found that children who have grown up with emotional, sexual or physical abuse, have experienced the early loss of a primary caregiver at a young age, suffered neglect or experienced traumatic events can be at increased risk of depression. It is thought this is because the child has learnt less coping strategies as a result of their experiences so that when they are older they are more vulnerable to life’s challenges and hardships.

Life events

Life events-Research has also found that depression can be a reaction to a life event such as the loss of a job, death of a loved one, attack or assault, end of a relationship or physical illness. Experiencing such events does not mean you will become depressed but it can make you more vulnerable to it.