Each part of your body, brain included, has a genetic component that helps control it. During a lifetime, different genes are activated or deactivated depending on your biological needs. In the best-case scenario, the genetic combinations result in stability and growth, while genetic mutations or certain genetic combinations can result in a destabilized mood. According to Harvard Medical School, “In a person who is genetically vulnerable to depression, any stress (a missed deadline at work or a medical illness, for example) can then push this system off balance.”
According to the Stanford School of Medicine, major depressive disorder will impact at least 10% of the U.S. population at some point during their lifetime. Clinical depression, also known as MDD or major depressive disorder, is the most severe form of depression. This is different from the depression one might experience because of grief or another medical condition.
Is MDD Genetic?
A study conducted by a British Research team revealed that 40% of causes for depression can be linked to genetics. Isolating one of what many researchers speculate is several “depression genes,” this research team determined “chromosome 3p25-26 was found in more than 800 families with recurrent depression.”
According to Stanford’s School of Medicine, “If someone has a parent or sibling with major depression, that person probably has a 2- or 3-times greater risk of developing depression compared with the average person (or around 20-30% instead of 10%).”
Depression Gene
Researchers have determined that there is no one definitive gene that causes depression. Cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease can be linked to one specific gene for its cause. More common disorders like depression, diabetes and high blood pressure are influenced by a broader spectrum of genes. “In these disorders, there seem to be combinations of genetic changes that predispose some people to become ill. We do not yet know how many genes are involved in depression,” says Standford School of Medicine.
Other Factors That Cause Depression
If 40% of the causes of depression are genetic, what makes up the other 60%? Many factors play a role in triggering the onset of a depressive episode or disorder. Family history is not just a genetic factor. It can also influence the environment in which a child is growing up and learning behavior. If a child grows up in a setting where a depressed parent is constantly sleeping or isolating, the child may find this behavior feels normal and mimic it.
Other factors that can contribute to the onset of depression include:
- Life events
- Trauma
- Stress
- Early Loss
Getting Help
Although there is no known cure for depression, there are several ways to manage it. Whether you have a genetic predisposition to depression or not, if you are suffering from symptoms, it is critical to get help. Talk therapy and a variety of medications can help ease symptoms of depression and give you your life back. If you would like to talk with others who are experiencing similar things, join our depression community on PatientsLikeMe.