Depression is caused by a combination of factors, including: 

• Life eventsMajor negative life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss, can trigger depression.
• Personality traitsSome personality traits, such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, or being self-critical, can increase the risk of depression.
• Family historyHaving a close family member with depression can increase the likelihood of developing depression yourself.
• MedicationsSome medications, such as high blood pressure medications or sleeping pills, can cause depression as a side effect.
• Substance useAlcohol and recreational drugs can contribute to depression.
• Other mental health disordersA history of other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorder, eating disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder, can increase the risk of depression.
• Physical healthDepression can co-occur with other serious medical illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, chronic pain, and Parkinson’s disease.