Depression and Suicide Facts #2

-Causes-

Suicide is often times brought on by depression, with that in mind, most of the causes are the same for both of them.  They can be broken down into three categories:  Biological, Psychological, and Social Factors.

Biological:  There are several ways to possibly identify depression in an individual from a biological stand point.  One, there may be a chemical imbalance.  This may be from a lack of or to much of a certain chemical within your body.  Two, it may be due to ones brain being formed differently.  This is based on newer research that scientists have found that the brain structure in certain patients may help medical professionals detect signs of depression.  Thirdly, hormones, may also play a role.  It has been found that estrogen levels, both the newer higher levels found that arrive in adolescence, and the low levels after menopause are all possible causes.

Psychological:  Ones ability to cope with depression will also determine how one will respond.  If one has low self-esteem, or a self-defeating personality they might have a more difficult time dealing with the stress presented.  There is also Attachment Theory.  This theory focuses on how if an individual "lost" their caregiver at an early age, they might very well develop depression like symptoms later in life.  There is also a dark circle when dealing depression in that the "victim" will often times blame themselves, further deepening and repeating the conditions.

Social:  Poverty and social isolation are two of the major causes of depression in individuals.  Child abuse, as well as bullying/hazing (see earlier posts about these two) also may have an effect.  It has been found that lack of social support in life may lead to depression or suicide.  It may also be internal, as in one holds negative stereotypes about oneself, further increasing the issue.

As you can see, there are a wide array of possible causes for depression which could lead to suicide.  The above are definitely not all of them, and there may be cases where it is near impossible to identify what brought on the condition.

No one is alone, be the light you want to see in the world