RISK FACTOR

Depression can affect anyone—even a person who appears to live in relatively ideal circumstances.

Several factors can play a role in depression:

Biochemistry

Differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of depression.

Genetics

Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.

Personality

People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience depression.

Environmrntal Factors

Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to depression.