What may trigger depression?

It is known that there are changes in the level of certain chemicals in the brains of people who are depressed. There is also evidence that if your close blood relatives suffer from depression, you are at a greater risk of having depression. For many people, depression is triggered by stressful events, alcohol or drug use. In others, a physical illness or medication causes symptoms of depression. However, in some people there is no obvious trigger. Think about your situation - was your depression associated with one of the triggers listed below?

If so, put a check beside it. If not, and you are aware of some other trigger, write it in the space provided. It would help to discuss this with your doctor, your family and friends.

• Moving house
• Loss of job
• Divorce or separation
• Poverty
• Death of a loved one
• Unemployment
• Long term alcohol use
• Chronic drug use
• Certain medications
• Seasonal changes
• Dissatisfaction or conflict at work
• Loneliness
• Widowhood
• Marital problems
• Chronic physical illness
• Childbirth
• Being a victim of a crime or an accident
• Unsatisfactory relationships with family or friends
• Serious injury or illness in the patient or a loved one
• Unprepared social and cultural changes (immigration)
• Low self-esteem
• Others (specify)