Depression

• Genetics: Depression can run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) can affect mood regulation.

• Hormonal changes: Thyroid problems, postpartum hormone shifts, or menopause can trigger depressive episodes.

• Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses, neurological disorders, or certain medications can lead to depression.

• Trauma or stress: Early childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect can increase vulnerability.

• Personality traits: Low self-esteem, perfectionism, or high sensitivity to stress may predispose someone.

• Cognitive patterns: Negative thinking, rumination, and pessimistic outlooks can contribute.

• Life events: Loss of a loved one, financial problems, unemployment, or major life changes.

• Social isolation: Lack of social support or meaningful connections can trigger or worsen depression.

• Chronic stress: Long-term stress at work, school, or home can be a significant factor.

• Poor sleep or nutrition: Irregular sleep patterns or deficiencies in nutrients (like vitamin D or omega-3) may influence mood.

• Substance use: Alcohol or drug misuse can both cause and worsen depression.

• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyle may negatively impact brain chemistry.

Sometimes people feel really sad or tired for different reasons. Big Sadness (Major Depression) makes you feel unhappy most of the time. Long Sadness (Dysthymia) is a little sad every day for a long time. Ups and Downs (Bipolar) is when you feel super happy sometimes and very sad other times.

Winter Sadness (SAD) happens when it’s dark and cold outside. Baby Blues (Postpartum Depression) can make new moms feel sad after having a baby. Some people feel very sad and have scary thoughts (Psychotic Depression), or get sad because of big changes in life (Situational Depression). Everyone’s sadness is different, and they need different help.

• Changes in sleep (insomnia or oversleeping)

• Changes in appetite or weight (eating too little or too much)

• Low energy, fatigue, or feeling “slowed down”

• Restlessness or inability to sit still

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities

• Unexplained aches, pains, or digestive problems

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

• Feeling worthless, guilty, or ashamed

• Trouble concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

• Irritability or frustration, even over small things

• Thoughts of death or suicide

Overcoming depression with faith involves prayer, Scripture meditation, community support, gratitude, and self-care. Faith doesn’t always instantly remove the signs of depression, but it provides hope, perspective, and God’s presence through the struggle.