Somatic Depression: When the Body Reflects the Mind
The Many Causes of Depression: Why It’s Not Just About Life Circumstances
For a long time, depression and anxiety disorders were primarily attributed to difficult life circumstances, such as a troubled childhood. Many patients begin therapy with the belief that they need to “work through” their past, often leading to self-doubt when they don’t see a clear link between their upbringing and their condition.
Depression Is Not Always Psychological
One of the first things we emphasize in therapy is that not all depression stems from psychological trauma, stress, or life events. Depression can have a genetic (hereditary) component, and physical illnesses or nutritional deficiencies can also trigger depressive symptoms.
In fact, research has identified up to 400 medical conditions that can be accompanied by depression.
Depression as a Medication Side Effect
One often-overlooked cause of depression is medication side effects. When depressive symptoms appear in connection with certain drugs, it would be misleading to assume that life circumstances are the main cause.
Medical Evaluation Is Key
If there is suspicion that physical factors may be contributing to depressive symptoms, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary. A psychiatrist can:
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Check for underlying medical conditions
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Assess blood values (e.g., iron levels, vitamin deficiencies)
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Evaluate medication side effects
Nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, toxic substances, and metabolic disorders can all influence mental health. Based on these findings, a personalized treatment plan can be developed.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
While therapy is a crucial tool in managing depression, it’s important to recognize that for some individuals, biological and medical factors play a significant role. A combination of psychotherapy, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes may be the most effective strategy for long-term mental health.
