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The biology of depression is the attempt to identify a biochemical origin of depression, as opposed to theories that emphasize psychological or situational causes. Scientific studies have found that different brain areas show altered activity in humans with major depressive disorder (MDD) . [ 1 ]
Risk factors for mental illness include psychological trauma, adverse childhood experiences, genetic predisposition, and personality traits. [7] [8] Correlations between mental disorders and substance use are also found to have a two way relationship, in that substance use can lead to the development of mental disorders and having mental disorders can lead to substance use/abuse.
In physiology and medicine, depression [1] refers to a lowering, in particular a reduction in a specific biological variable or the functions of an organ. It is the opposite of elevation. For example, it is possible to refer to "depressed thyroid function" or to a depression of blood flow in a particular area. Further examples:
Central nervous system (CNS) depression is a physiological state that can result in a decreased rate of breathing, decreased heart rate, and loss of consciousness, possibly leading to coma or death. It is the result of inhibited or suppressed brain activity .
Additionally, evidence points to abnormalities in neurotransmission, intracellular signaling, and cellular functioning as contributing factors. [ 3 ] Research into bipolar disorder, particularly neuroimaging studies, faces challenges such as confounding effects of medication, comorbid conditions, and small sample sizes, which may result in ...
Endogenous depression is an atypical subclass of major depressive disorder (clinical depression). It could be caused by genetic and biological factors. [ 1 ] Endogenous depression occurs due to the presence of an internal (cognitive, biological) stressor instead of an external (social, environmental) stressor. [ 2 ]
Family history, previous diagnosis of a mood disorder, trauma, stress or major life changes in the case of depression, physical illness or use of certain medications. Depression has been linked to major diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and heart disease, Brain structure and function in the case of bipolar disorder. [1 ...
Depression can have multiple, sometimes overlapping, origins. Depression can be a symptom of some mood disorders, some of which are also commonly called depression, such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and dysthymia. [7] Additionally, depression can be a normal temporary reaction to life events, such as the loss of a loved one.