Depression is a complex disease with no single cause. Most experts believe that there is a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to depression risk. Here are some possible causes of depression:

• Biological factors: Genetics or a family history of depression, health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or thyroid disorders, hormonal changes that happen over the lifespan, such as pregnancy and menopause, and changes in brain chemistry, especially disruptions in neurotransmitters like serotonin, that play an important role in regulating many bodily functions, including mood, sleep, and appetite, are thought to play a particularly important role in depression.

• Social factors: Childhood experiences, life events, such as losing a job, experiencing money problems, or the end of a relationship, bereavement, chronic or long-term physical health problems, physical health problems that cause ongoing pain or discomfort, life-threatening illnesses, physical health problems that significantly change your lifestyle, and substance misuse.

• Psychological factors: Styles of thinking and other mental health problems.

Its important to note that depression is a treatable condition, and effective treatments and supports are available to help people start feeling better. Seeking medical help as soon as symptoms appear is essential.