Those adolescents with low self-esteem are at a higher risk level. People under stress are at high risk. Yes, corporations that move their operations to Mexico or Indonesia and throw 10,000 people out of work, this is a major cause of depression. For a long time, we thought of mental illnesses as being biologically based only, with treatment and medication as our primary objective. We have been reactive and treating rather than proactive and preventing in this area.
Treatment can sometimes be long.
Unfortunately, we can't spend money on prevention because we have people lined up outside thee door needing treatment. But we can try to prevent situations that are unhealthy for children. Stress, abuse, violence, sexism, exploitation, poverty are all noxious agents. I think if children sense in their bones that they are wanted, loved and appreciated, they develop a great internal self-confidence that resists all kinds of stress. This person could be an aunt, scoutmaster, coach or a teacher.