Chapter 2: Mental health concerns
Depression – What is it and what may cause it
Depression is a medical condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. It’s different from feeling occasionally sad or “blue” in that it can last for weeks, months, or even years. Fortunately, a combination of medication and therapy can often help.
Causes of depression
The exact cause of depression is not clear. There may be a number of things involved. Click on some possible causes below.
Heredity
Depression may run in families, but having a relative with depression does not mean you will develop it.
Medications
Medications can affect moods, for example, steroids used to treat illness.
Stress
Living with advanced illness is extremely stressful. Someone who normally struggles with stress may be more vulnerable to depression.
Illness
There may be a connection between chronic (long-term) illness and depression.
Whatever the cause of depression, it’s important to remember that it is a medical condition and not a sign of weakness in a person’s character.
