What causes depressive illness?
Depression is a biological illness related to an imbalance or disruption of brain chemistry. The brain is an organ of the body and can get sick just like the heart, liver, or kidneys. A mix of genetic, physiological, psychological and environmental factors impact how and when depressive illness presents itself. Sometimes, depression can appear “out of the blue” – when it would seem there are no underlying reasons People of all ages, including infants and children (who may be born with a chemical imbalance), can suffer from depressive illnesses. Since they may be genetically pre-disposed, a person with a family history of depression may be at higher risk. But it’s important to note that not everyone with depression in their family history will end up with a depressive illness.
