Depression has many different causes ranging from environmental factors, genetics/biological factors, upbringing to social factors, bereavement, lack of sunlight (in the case of seasonal affective disorder) and is often the result of a combination of the above.
There are a wide variety of different medical conditions which have been recognised to be a factor in the development of depression. Specific conditions as identified by Lockley (2005) include:
- Post-Viral fatigue
- Glandular fever ('mono')
- Thyroid problems
- Lack of sunlight
Post-Viral Fatigue and Depression
Many different viruses are believed to have a serious impact upon a person's physical and psychological well-being. One may feel absolutely wiped out with exhaustion following a viral infection and in some cases this may lead to a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis usually known as 'ME' is sometimes misdiagnosed when depression is the real problem, however, many people with ME are also recognized as suffering from depression due to the impact the condition has upon health and well-being.
Glandular Fever and Depression
Glandular fever is a severe form of viral infection which often affects adolescents and will make the sufferer feel exhausted and unable to keep up at school as a result. This condition is usually diagnosed through a blood test and decreases appetite and impacts upon energy levels and sleeping patterns.
As a result of falling behind in work/school and not having the energy to socialise much it is hardly surprising to find that this illness may be a factor in a person's depression.
Thyroid Problems May Cause Depression
When an individual presents to their GP with symptoms of fatigue and appetite changes they may be given a blood test to identify if they are suffering from either an under-active or overactive thyroid. This is because the thyroid gland is responsible for the speed of a person's biochemical reactions and thus if not functioning properly may result in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Unlike both glandular fever and post-viral fatigue, if a person has an under-active thyroid there is a simple treatment available which consists of the patient taking thyroxine (hormone) in tablet form.
Lack of Sunlight and SAD
When an individual is affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly known as SAD, the depression is caused by a lack of sunlight. As a result symptoms appear around autumn and winter and then being to ease off as spring begins. Treatment is often a simple case of getting a light-box to use during the darker months of the year.
Source:
Lockley, J. (2005) A Practical Workbook For The Depressed Christian Milton Keynes: Authentic.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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