Let there be no doubt that depression is a serious mental illness that requires months and sometimes years of treatment on the path to a cure. Each year, millions of people come to the realization that they suffer from depression. To make things worse it is estimated that only a third of those who suffer the disease will ever seek treatment. Many Americans don't want to be considered crazy, so because depression is considered a mental affliction they avoid diagnosis. Instead of being considered mentally ill, people try to manage the problem themselves. Depression is more common- place than you might think and it will not go away on its own.

Why do people get depression? There are many factors to consider, so the answer isn't simple. Depression can be a long story because of many issues. Here are a few of the parts of depression. Brain chemicals being out of proportion contributes strongly to depression. This may be the case, but what causes that imbalance? Typically the causes stem from biological, genetic, physical, mental and environmental implications. Doctors sometimes don't find the root cause, which is true for many patients. Depression often follows diagnosis of other medical conditions, particularly those that result in imminent death or are chronic.

Another cause of depression can be the emotional pain felt after losing a loved one. In many cases the loss can be very traumatic. Some depression is brought on after years of physical, emotional or sexual abuse. In addition, many cases of depression are given birth by substance abuse, rather it be drugs or alcohol. People's mental states are fragile. If exposed to the wrong pressures, depression can result. There can also be a genetic element to depression. A strong correlation between family history of depression and current depression has been found . There are even some prescribed medications that can bring on depression. High blood pressure medication can result in depression.

One of the major causes of depression is stress. Stress can derive from many different areas in our life. It's not well known, but it's true, that stress can result from the pressures associated with positive events such as a new, high paying job. The unknown is often the root cause of this stress, whether it be positive or negative. In addition, many are stressed from personal conflicts with their loved ones, associates in employment or friends. Just trying to make ends meet is stressful for some people. Knowing is half the battle. If you or someone you love suffers from depression-please seek medical assistance.

There have been innumerable studies on depression, and various theories have been put forward as to why people fall into a depressed state of mind. The general opinion that has been shared by the medical faculties is that there are a variety of causes that cause depression and it cannot be attributed to any one factor. Research is still going on, and great headway has been made over the years.