Can Depression Be Passed Down?

Depression is a debilitating mental disorder that can affect an individual’s emotional state, ability to cope with life and their general well-being. While its origin may be debated, the fact that depression runs in families is widely accepted. Many people wonder if depression can be passed down through the generations, much like some physical traits like eye color.

What Exactly is Depression?

Depression is a psychiatric disorder that’s characterized by severe lows in mood. A person who experiences depression often suffers from a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including low self-esteem, fatigue, anxiety, changes in sleep, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and even thoughts of suicide. There’s no single cause of depression but there are a number of contributing factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment.

How is Depression Transmitted?

While there’s no single cause of depression, some studies have shown that certain predispositions towards this disorder can be inherited, particularly in families where depression is prevalent.

It’s believed that depression has a genetic component, meaning that certain genetic mutations can increase an individual’s risk of developing depression. A person with a family history of depression is more likely to experience the condition, as opposed to someone without any family history.

In addition to a genetic component, depression can also be passed down through other factors. For example, people who grow up in an environment with depression might take on some of the same beliefs and behaviors that contribute to their parent’s depression.

Signs of Depression

If someone suspects they are experiencing depression, there are a few signs they should look out for. These include:

• • Feelings of persistent sadness

 

• • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies

 

• • Changes in sleeping and eating habits

 

• • Lack of energy or motivation

 

• • Difficulty concentrating

 

• • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

 

• • Thoughts or attempts of suicide

 

It’s important to remember that everyone experiences depression differently and the severity of someone’s depression will vary from person to person.

Treating Depression

If someone is found to be suffering from depression, it’s important they seek professional help as soon as possible. Different forms of treatment are available and often involve both medications, such as antidepressants, and counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

It’s also important for someone with depression to make lifestyle changes, such as increasing their physical activity and developing healthier habits. In some cases, a person with depression may also benefit from talking to other people with similar conditions. This can help them learn more about the disorder, as well as provide support and understanding.

Can Depression be Hereditary?

The short answer is yes. While there’s no single, definitive answer to the question of whether depression can be passed down, the evidence suggests that certain predispositions for depression can be inherited.

Depression can be caused by genetics, a person’s environment, lifestyle, and even their beliefs and behaviors. As such, the best way to reduce the risk of depression is to create a supportive and healthy environment and to seek help as soon as possible if symptoms emerge.