Exactly what causes depression is unknown. As is the case with numerous mental disorders, the following may contribute to the condition:

• Biological variations. Brains of depressed individuals appear to undergo physical alterations. Although the exact nature of these alterations remains unknown, they may ultimately aid in identifying their causes.
• Chemical balance of the brain. Hypothetically, neurotransmitters, which are brain substances that occur naturally, contribute to depression. Alterations in the function and impact of these neurotransmitters, as well as their interactions with neurocircuits implicated in the regulation of mood stability, may have a substantial bearing on the treatment of depression, according to recent studies.
• Hormones. Hormonal imbalances within the body may potentially contribute to the development or initiation of depression. Hormonal fluctuations may occur during pregnancy, the weeks or months following childbirth (postpartum), due to thyroid issues, menopause, or various other physiological processes.
• Inherited traits. Depression is more prevalent among individuals with depressive relatives by blood. Scholars endeavor to identify markers that might play a role in the development of depression.

Although depression typically manifests in one's teens, twenties, or thirties, it can occur at any stage of life. The fact that more women than males are diagnosed with depression may be because women are more likely to seek treatment.

The following appear to increase the likelihood of developing or being triggered by depression:

• Specific personality traits, including excessive dependence, self-criticism, pessimism, and low self-esteem
• Affective or distressing occurrences, including but not limited to physical or sexual abuse, bereavement, a challenging romantic partnership, or financial hardships
• Relatives who have a familial predisposition to depression, bipolar disorder, alcoholism, or suicide
• In an unsupportive environment, identify as lesbian, homosexual, bisexual, or transgender, or disclose variations in the development of genital organs that are not male or female (intersex).
• Previous diagnoses of anxiety disorders, eating disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder should be noted.
• Substance abuse for recreational purposes
• Illness that is severe or chronic, such as cancer, stroke, chronic pain, or cardiovascular disease
• Specific medications, including certain blood pressure medications and sleeping drugs (consult your physician before discontinuing any medication).

While depression can manifest as a single episode throughout an individual's lifetime, it is more common for individuals to experience multiple episodes. Symptoms manifest throughout the majority of the day, virtually daily, and may comprise:

• Depressed emotions, weeping, a sense of desolation, or hopelessness
• Irritation, frustration, or angry outbursts, even over trivial matters
• Absence of delight or interest in the majority or all typical activities, including intercourse, hobbies, or athletics
• Sleep disruptions, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness
• Weakness and fatigue cause even the smallest of duties to require additional effort.
• Enhanced food cravings and weight gain or diminished appetite and weight loss
• Anxiety, restlessness, or agitation
• Decreased rate of thought, speech, or body movement
• Emotions of remorse or worthlessness, preoccupation with past failures, or self-blame
• Problems with concentration, decision-making, pondering, and remembering
• Suicidal ideation, recurring or frequent thoughts of mortality, suicide attempts, or suicide
• Physical issues that cannot be explained, including back pain or migraines
• Depression is frequently accompanied by symptoms that are severe enough to interfere noticeably with daily responsibilities, including school, work, social engagements, and interpersonal relationships.

Certain individuals may experience general misery or unhappiness without understanding the underlying cause.

Symptoms of depression in children and teens

While there may be some distinctions, the common signs and symptoms of melancholy in children and adolescents are comparable to those observed in adults.

• Manifestations of depression in younger children may encompass melancholy, irritability, clinginess, anxiety, bodily discomfort, absence of attendance at school, or inadequate weight.
• Sadness, irritability, feelings of negativity and worthlessness, anger, poor academic performance or absenteeism, extreme sensitivity and a sense of being misunderstood, excessive drug or alcohol use, excessive sleeping or eating, self-harm, loss of interest in social activities, and avoidance of social interaction are all possible symptoms in adolescents.

Symptoms of depression in older adults

Age-related depression is not a typical aspect of aging, and this fact should never be disregarded. Regrettably, older individuals frequently experience undiagnosed and untreated depression, which may contribute to their reluctance to seek assistance. Depressive symptoms may manifest differently or be less conspicuous in the elderly, including:

• Memory impairments or alterations in personality
• Physical discomfort or agony
• Excessive fatigue, diminished appetite, disturbed sleep, or a lack of sexual desire—without a medical diagnosis or prescribed medication
• Frequently desiring to remain indoors instead of engaging in social activities or trying new things.
• Suicidal ideation or sentiments, particularly among elderly males

Depression is a severe disorder and can have devastating consequences for both the individual and their family. Untreated depression frequently progresses to encompass emotional, behavioral, and health complications that profoundly impact an individual's existence.

The following are instances of complications that may be linked to depression:

• Obesity or excess weight, which can result in cardiovascular disease and diabetes
• Physical discomfort or illness
• Misuse of alcohol or drugs
• Social phobia, panic disorder, or anxiety
• Conflicts within the family, difficulties in relationships, and work or academic issues
• Isolation from society Suicidal ideation attempts suicide
• Self-mutilation, including ceasing to breathe prematurely due to medical conditions

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, any health care professional, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.

If you think you may be in danger of harming yourself or attempting suicide, call 7333 or the emergency number 103 immediately.

The main treatments for depression are psychotherapy and medication, or a combination of both.

For some people, depression is so severe that it requires hospitalization. This may be necessary if you are unable to take care of yourself properly or if you are in immediate danger of harming yourself or others.

Other treatments may be offered to some people, particularly for depression that is resistant to medication and psychotherapy.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a modern non-invasive technique that can help fight depression even in cases where other treatments have failed. To date, the effectiveness and safety of TMS in the treatment of various forms of depression have been proven in many scientific studies, including meta-analyses and numerous randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials, which are classically used to confirm the effectiveness of treatment worldwide.

Transcranial electrical stimulation (tDCS) is a method based on the influence on the neurons of the brain using a weak direct current of low frequency