What Causes Depression

What Causes Depression

The Albany Clinic • October 9, 2022

Depending on your moods and how you deal with them, nearly all facets of your life can be turned upside down if you’re experiencing long-term depression. Identifying symptoms is critical in finding effective treatment, but also knowing what can worsen your condition is important, too.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness , depressive disorder, more commonly referred to as depression, is greater than just being sad or navigating through a tough stretch of life. It’s a severe mental health illness that demands understanding and medical attention. If ignored, depression can be devastating for anyone who has it and their families. Early detection, combined with diagnosis and treatment, including medicine, psychotherapy, and healthy living, can help many people to get better.

What is Depression?

Depression is a type of mood disorder that is characterized by a perpetual feeling of desolation and sorrow. It is different from grief or temporary sadness over a loss or unpleasant event. It is a prolonged feeling of sadness, cheerlessness, or total displeasure with life. 

We all experience occasional down moments. It is very normal to feel blue or experience sadness over an unpleasant experience. However, this feeling is very much different from depression. Depression entails a constant feeling of sadness, tiredness, and self-loathing. 

While there are always identifiable reasons for grief or normal sadness, there might be no obvious reasons for depression. Oftentimes, depressed people are not able to explain why they feel the way they do.

Causes of Depression

Clinical depression is a very complex condition. There are no clear causes of depression. People get depressed for several reasons and sometimes for no obvious reasons.

Some of the observed spurs of depression include:

Genetics

Genes are sometimes responsible for depression in people. People from families with a history of depression have higher risks of being depressed than others. It is also common to see multiple siblings or cousins diagnosed with clinical depression.

According to Healthline.com, people who have a family history of depression are five times more likely to have it than people who don’t. 

However, depression is not a purely genetic disease. There are many other factors responsible for depression.

Chemical Imbalance

Depression has also been said to result from chemical imbalances in the brain. These imbalances happen when the brain has either insufficient or insufficient neurotransmitters. These are also called chemical messengers.

There are parts of the brain responsible for regulating moods and emotions. These include the hippocampus and frontal lobe. Changes in these structures have been linked to mental health diseases like depression.

However, many scientists have disputed this theory. Some believe chemical imbalances have no impact on mood.

Hormonal Changes

Another trigger for depression is alterations in hormone functioning and production. Hormones help control most of the body’s processes, reproduction, and metabolism. Changes in hormone or hormonal imbalances can result in mental health issues.

Major hormone changes can be traced to several factors. These include:

  • Medical issues related to ovulation or menstrual cycle
  • Puberty
  • Pregnancy and Childbirth
  • Onset of menopause
  • Medical conditions like Osteoporosis, thyroid problems, and many more

A major type of depression caused by hormonal changes is postpartum depression. This is a form of depression developed by new mothers. It occurs just after giving birth and can last a while.

Medication and Substance Abuse

Depression can also be induced by certain medications. Feelings of sadness and discouragement are side effects of some medicines. For example, isotretinoin, a treatment for acne, has been observed to trigger depression in some people. Other types of these medications include contraceptives, stations, and high blood pressure drugs. 

It is estimated that one-third of depressed people abuse drugs. Drug use only intensifies feelings of sadness and may trigger self-hurt and other destructive behaviors.

Situational Causes

Several unfavorable situations, such as abuse and major life changes, can also cause depression. Many cases of depression have been linked to childhood trauma, such as accidents or parents’ divorce. 

Also, major events such as relocation, marriage, divorce, losing a job, graduation, and retirement can trigger depression.

Other causes of depression include:

  • Gender identity
  • Personal problems
  • Medical conditions
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Socioeconomic Status

Conclusion

While some people diagnosed with clinical depression might be able to identify the cause of their predicament, many others can not. Sometimes, seemingly perfect people with no clear reason suffer chronic depression.

Although medical diagnosis might be able to detect depression and its level of severity, it might be more difficult to identify the causes.  Nonetheless, depression is treatable and can be managed with treatments like ketamine infusion therapy. Contact us today to get started.

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In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy

A Guide to IV Ketamine

By Matt Rodriguez • July 8, 2025
Intravenous (IV) ketamine has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other hard-to-treat mental health conditions. Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, but is now being used in controlled medical settings to deliver rapid relief when traditional therapies fall short. This guide explores the history, science, benefits, and practical considerations of IV ketamine therapy and what you can expect from treatment at The Albany Clinic.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Depression

By Kimberly Mercille • May 27, 2025
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an emerging mental health treatment that targets key mechanisms linked to depression. In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind SGB and its potential benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether SGB might be the right option. What is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)? What is the Stellate Ganglion? The stellate ganglion is a cluster of sympathetic nerves located on each side of the neck near the first rib. These nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The term "stellate" means "star-shaped" because the ganglion often looks like a star under a microscope. It helps regulate the body's stress response by controlling norepinephrine, a chemical that triggers the fight-or-flight reaction. When this system becomes overactive, it can cause various physical and psychological problems, including depression. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy may help by reducing the activity of the stellate ganglion, calming the fight-or-flight response, and lessening the damaging effects of prolonged nervous system stress. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work? Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is when a local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion. These drugs inhibit transmission between nerve cells, dampening activity in the ganglion. They typically include lidocaine, bupivacaine, or mepivacaine, which are sometimes combined with a steroid medication. Patients may also receive another medication to relax them before treatment. SGB is typically performed using ultrasound guidance . The injection process lasts no more than 10 minutes, but patients will motinoted for another 30-45 minutes after treatment to ensure their safety. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work for Depression? Chronic stress is a major contributor to depression and is often linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. People with depression commonly show high levels of cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, in their blood stream. Cortisol is helpful in small doses, but when chronically elevated, it can disrupt neural circuits in the brain. Excessive cortisol can lead to: Neurotoxicity - Cortisol can be toxic to nerve cells, especially in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and emotional regulation. Overinflammation - Cortisol increases the activity of the body’s natural defense system, resulting in the system causing damage to nerve cells. Impaired synaptic plasticity - Cortisol inhibits the capacity for the brain to “re-wire” itself. This makes it harder for people to adapt to stressful situations and learn new patterns of behaviour. Disrupted sleep - High cortisol can prevent people from sleeping well. During sleep, restorative biological processes occur in the brain, and excess cortisol can prevent these from happening. SGB decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can reduce cortisol levels. This can help restore function in brain areas and pathways associated with positive mood, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. Evidence Supporting SGB for Depression To date, there’s very limited evidence supporting the use of SGB for depression. One pilot study found that SGP significantly reduced depression symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and was well-tolerated. However, there was no significant difference to the placebo group and the sample size was very small. Nonetheless, multiple lines of research show that SGB can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which shares similarities with depression. In a trial of SGB for PTSD , participants reported significantly lower scores of depression following treatment. Who May Benefit from SGB for Depression? SGB is primarily utilized for treating PTSD, so individuals with PTSD who also experience depression may find SGB beneficial. Additionally, SGB has shown potential in alleviating anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may be advantageous for those dealing with both depression and anxiety. Because SGB isn’t approved by the FDA, it is typically only used when standard treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy haven’t worked. SGB is an “off-label” treatment, much like ketamine therapy or brain stimulation therapies. Importantly, SGB may not be suitable for everyone because of medical reasons. Contraindications include: Recent myocardial infarction Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy Glaucoma Pre-existing contralateral phrenic nerve palsy Severe emphysema Cardiac conduction block Potential Risks and Side Effects of SGB Common Side Effects Most side effects of SGB are temporary and resolve as the anesthetic wears off. These may include: Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The proximity of the stellate ganglion to nerves controlling the voice box can lead to temporary hoarseness. Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis): Temporary drooping of the eyelid on the side of the injection may occur. Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Some individuals may notice redness in the eyes following the procedure. Watery Eyes and Nasal Congestion: Increased tearing and nasal stuffiness are possible but typically short-lived. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat and have difficulty swallowing after the procedure. Warmth or Tingling in the Arm or Hand: A warm or tingling sensation in the affected limb may be experienced temporarily. Although uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious complications, such as nerve damage, seizures, and allergic reactions. Given the potential risks, patients interested in SGB at the Albany Clinic will have an in-depth consultation with one of our qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing treatment. They can assess your medical history, current health status, and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure in your specific case. SGB for Depression in Illinois If you're in the Carbondale area and interested in the potential benefits of SGB for depression, the Albany Clinic is here to help. We specialize in innovative mental health treatments, including SGB, which has been shown to provide rapid relief from mental health symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks. Our experienced team offers personalized support, guiding you through every step—from determining if SGB is the right option for you to exploring alternative treatments and financial considerations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.