Risk Factors and Triggers for Depression
Obviously, difficult life changes like the death of a loved one can start a bout of depression. Dealing with a serious illness can, as well. We refer to that as “secondary depression.” It’s hard for us to tell whether that depression is caused by the emotional effect of coping with a long-term illness, or by physical changes that the illness can cause. That may seem like a subtle difference, but it’s an important one, and we’re still trying to figure it out. Our feelings and thoughts all boil down to chemical and electrical signals in our bodies. We don’t yet know all of the different ways the two-way street between our body and our mind works.
But we do know some of the things that put us at risk. People with low self-esteem and people who are pessimistic are more likely to experience depression. People who abuse alcohol or other drugs are more likely to, as well. People with a history of other mental health disorders are at risk for experiencing depression alongside their existing problems. Depression is also incredibly prevalent among members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well. Though it's worth noting that this is almost certainly due to the hardships faced by LGBTQ+ people, who find themselves bullied, disowned, homeless, and otherwise threatened at disproportionately high levels.
Image: Milada Vigerova, Unsplash.
Did you know...
- There are many factors that contribute to your body odor, but one of the strongest links is our diet. This may be some bad news for meat-lovers because many studies have shown that those who refrained from or ate less red meat were judged as being more pleasant smelling. The meat sweats are real, and they don’t smell great!
- Are you currently or often tired? As contradictory as it may sound, one of the best things you can do is exercise! It gives you more energy by improving your blood flow and increasing your oxygen throughout your body. You don't need to do much; a brisk walk is all it takes!
- Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- Starting to feel claustrophobic? The smells of apples may help keep your claustrophobic feelings at bay according to a 1995 study by Dr. Alan Hirsch. Green apples, specifically, helped people change their perception of their space. Maybe they thought of expansive apple orchards? Cucumbers and barbecue made the feelings worse.