Although scientists agree that depression is a brain disorder, the debate continues about exact causes. Many factors may contribute to the onset of depression, including genetic characteristics, changes in hormone levels, certain medical illnesses, stress, grief, or substance abuse. Any of these factors alone or in combination can bring about the specific changes in brain chemistry that lead to the many symptoms of depression. The causes of depression are not fully understood, but scientists believe that an imbalance in the brain's signaling chemicals may be responsible for the condition in many of the patients. However, there are several theories about what this imbalance actually is and which signaling chemicals are involved. Moreover, a variety of distressing life situations are also associated, including early childhood trauma, a job loss, the death of a loved one, financial troubles, or a …show more content…
will experience some sort of mental health disorder, making the U.S. the country with the highest prevalence. Surveys have shown that up to half of Americans with depression don't get medical help for their condition. Left untreated, major depression can set off a chain of social, emotional and health consequences that add to patients’ overall stress. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include alcohol or drug abuse, anxiety, social isolation and relationship conflicts, work or school difficulties, or suicide. "Depression over-diagnosis and over-treatment is common in the U.S. and frankly the numbers are staggering," said Ramin J. Mojtabai, PhD, author of the study and an associate professor with the Bloomberg School's Department of Mental Health. People diagnosed with depression taking antidepressants should be closely monitored, for any worsening depression, suicidal thinking or behavior. They should be treated naturally. Lifestyle changes are simple but powerful tools in treating depression. Sometimes they might be all people with depression need. Even if they need other treatment, lifestyle changes go a long way towards helping lift depression. And they can help keep depression at bay once they’re are feeling