Mind and Matter

Mental Health Corner

Potential causes and symptoms of depression

There are a variety of experiences and events that can lead to depression, in many cases a person may not be able to pinpoint exactly what caused it or when it started. They just come to a realization that they are not feeling like themselves, or maybe a loved one notices first. Some common causes of depression can include: 

• Losing a Loved One - Grief after the loss of a loved one, although a natural part of life, can increase the risk of mental health conditions like depression 
• Experiencing Trauma of Abuse - Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse 
• Ongoing Illness - Depression can happen concurrently with a serious illness, or even be triggered by another medical condition. 
• Substance Misuse - People who have substance abuse issues can also suffer from depression, and although substances can feel like they are helping, they typically make the individual go deeper into depression. 
• Sudden Life Changes - Sudden life changes, whether they are good or bad lead to depression. This includes positive events like graduating college, starting a new job, or getting married for example. 
• Traumatic Childhood Experiences - Traumatic experiences in childhood have been linked to depression, some examples include divorce of parents, moving frequently, abuse, etc. 

Symptoms of depression are varied and can change over a period of time. If you believe you or a loved one are depressed, take note of and monitor symptoms, when they begin, if they change, and how long they last. 

• Feelings of anxiety or sadness 
• Eating more or less than usual, having no appetite 
• Hard time falling asleep and staying asleep 
• Experiencing a lot of pains and aches, headaches, stomach pains 
• Loss of interest in hobbies and social activities 
• Feelings restless, irritable, or easily frustrated 
• Feeling tired, even when well rested 
• Thoughts about and feeling helpless, worthless, guilty 
• Thinking of self-harm or suicide 

You may also take an anonymous online assessment on our website, fsap.miami.edu. 

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