Changes in the body's chemistry
influence mood and thought processes, and biological factors
often play an important role in cases of depression. In addition,
chronic and serious illnesses such as heart disease or cancer
may be accompanied by depression. For many individuals, however,
depression signals first and foremost that certain mental and
emotional aspects of life are out of balance.
Significant transitions and major
life stressors such as the death of a loved one or the loss
of a job very often trigger depression. Other more subtle factors
may also play a role and the causes of depression are not always
immediately apparent, so the disorder requires careful evaluation
and diagnosis by a trained mental health care professional.
