Contributing Factors to Depression
Genetics
Depression and bipolar disorder tend to run in families. If you have a family history of these disorders, your risk for developing them may be higher than most people. Depression is also more likely if other members of your family — parents, siblings or children — suffer from these disorders.
Brain chemistry
Depression and addiction often seem to go hand in hand.
Research suggests that variations in the genes responsible for producing or regulating key brain chemicals such as serotonin (a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of calm and well-being) may make people more likely to develop both conditions at once.
Low levels of certain brain chemicals can lead to both conditions. Depression may lead to drug use in people who are especially sensitive to the effects of low serotonin levels.
Depression and addiction may also occur together because drugs can raise neurotransmitter levels artificially, which can bring a sense of relief from depression symptoms. Some people with depression might abuse alcohol or other drugs as a form of self-medication.
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