It also affects physical functions like appetite, sleep, and activity level, as well as thinking processes like the ability to concentrate. The immediate cause is a chemical imbalance in the brain involving neurotransmitters. Hormones secreted by the brain and adrenal glands may also be involved in depression. Heredity plays a significant role in depression, but having a family history of depression is neither necessary nor sufficient to cause depression.
Marital stress is one of the major stressors involved in depression.
Suicide threats should be taken seriously. Suicide can be prevented if depression is treated. Depression is not a weakness, but an illness. The good news is that it is also very treatable. It's important not be frightened by this illness, but instead to recognize the signs and get treatment for it.