Health Matters: Top 7 Depression Triggers to Be Aware of

Depression is an illness that many suffer from without even knowing that they do while those that suspect it and seek treatment as brushed aside as pity seekers. A study in 2008 showed that 2 million people found that midlife depression spans the globe.

Depression can create a zombie out of anybody and what makes it more challenging is that it is not easily detected. Attributed to various factors, it is important to be aware of the triggers to be able to live a fulfilled life, below are a number though it is dependent on one’s environment;

Hormonal Instabilities during Perimenopause and Menopause

Hormone instabilities in one’s life commonly related to perimenopause and menopause can make your mood crash. Insomnia, a history of depression, or PMS, mood swings or depression may worsen during this stage of life.

To manage the effects by the hormones, engage in calming activities such as dancing, light exercise, yoga or go out with friends. Talking about it to people that you can really trust can also help and if it gets out of hand, seek a medical opinion from a specialist and not social media.

Overwhelming Responsibilities

There is never really a balance on responsibilities and it is easy to fall into depression if overwhelmed.

An example of mothers who have very young multiple children, a demanding job, marriage responsibilities and not to mention aging parents to care for, such women end up feeling worthless and overwhelmed leading to a huge number of depression cases amongst young mothers. It is hence important to create time and care for yourself.

Low Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, which is released by stomach acid, is vital in ensuring you do not feel lethargic or depressed. Check with your doctor to ensure the levels of B12 in your blood are not too low.

Changes in Sex Drive

Low testosterone levels can cause depression among men especially as they age as well as erectile dysfunction (ED) which leads to decreased drive-in sex. There are treatment options such as replacement therapy, talk to a Doctor for in-depth guidance.

Achy Joints and Painful Condition

Nobody loves pain and it is worse if it is a pain one has to live with only managing with painkillers.

Living with a condition that causes chronic pains such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, amongst other conditions intensifies one’s chance of falling into depression.

Studies have revealed that people with chronic pain are three times as likely to be depressed, sadly, depression only worsens the pain.

Regular exercise, meditation and just doing things that you enjoy could really lift the depression.

Alcohol Drinking

Every 1 in 4 older people who are alcoholics suffers major depression. Most alcoholics develop the habit in their bid to avoid issues like loss of a loved one, retirement amongst other reasons, alcohol however only compounds their troubles as it is known to cause a myriad of other age-related illnesses.

Insomnia

Insomnia is by itself a sign of depression. A human being is advised to enjoy 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome are also linked to depression. Talk to your doctor or specialist about possible reasons for your sleep problems and get treatment for them. Ensure to have a pattern in your sleeping hours, exercise and avoid caffeine, alcohol and other substances that could interfere with your sleep.