Unipolar depression causes

A number of biological, psychological and genetic factors can contribute to unipolar depression. Some scientists hypothesize that low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine are responsible for triggering depression. Antidepressants work by enhancing the levels of these neurotransmitters. These chemicals are essential for overall well being, alertness, motivation and enthusiasm for life. Some other studies suggest that a difference in brain structure can result in depression. This hypothesis is based on the studies of MRI scans of the brains of people with depression.

Unipolar depression is also associated with problems in the body’s circadian rhythm which in turn results in poor sleep patterns. Another problem that can result in depression is hormonal imbalances. This explains why this condition is seen more frequently in adolescents and women who are in the antenatal and menopausal periods. People, who have family history of depression generally get unipolar depression. In such people, upsetting events can result in intense depression. In some people, traumatic events like the death of a loved one, sexual abuse can trigger unipolar depression.

Other factors that can trigger unipolar depression include low self esteem, negative thinking, feelings of inadequacy, inability to handle disappointment. In some cases, people tend to slip into depression just in order to get attention. Counseling and medication can help people with depression get back to their normal selves.

The Difference between Bipolar depression and Unipolar depression - The difference between bipolar and unipolar depression lies in the manic episodes, mania is basically a state of increases level of pleasure or agitation, which is common in case of bipolar depression.