What Is Non-psychogenic Depression?
Depression is a common illness. Previously, it was believed depression stemmed solely from psychological causes, but scientific research confirms non-psychological factors can also trigger it. Common causes include:
Side effects of medication: Medications treat diseases but may also harm the body, even causing depression. If you develop depressive symptoms while taking medications for high blood pressure, arrhythmia, corticosteroids, or other steroids, consult a doctor immediately and switch to alternative drugs.
Thyroid disorders: Abnormal thyroid function is a major cause of depression. Blood tests can detect thyroid issues. Particularly, hypothyroidism easily triggers depression, with symptoms including weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, constipation, and irregular sleep. After treating the thyroid condition, depression usually resolves naturally.
Premenstrual syndrome: Many women experience premenstrual syndrome, but only 5% suffer severe depression affecting daily life. Main symptoms include intense hunger, crying spells, insomnia, and abnormal behavior. This results from increased estrogen before menstruation and altered vitamin B6 levels. Excessive decline in vitamin B6 can lead to depression.
Diabetes: Diabetic patients (including undiagnosed ones) may experience fatigue, tiredness, and insomnia due to high blood sugar—symptoms resembling depression.
Dieting for weight loss: Those who severely restrict food intake to lose weight may develop depression symptoms. Therefore, adopt healthy diet methods to maintain nutritional balance.
Physical inactivity: Research shows lack of exercise contributes to depression. Regular physical activity can eliminate depression.
Inadequate sunlight exposure: Insufficient sunlight can lead to depression. Experts believe some people are highly sensitive to melatonin, which forms only in darkness or low-light conditions. Melatonin levels rise in winter, so increased sun exposure helps relieve depression.
Nutritional imbalance: Inadequate nutrition and reduced activity levels may trigger depression, though severe malnutrition rarely causes it. Research indicates deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals within the body are primarily responsible.
Hormonal imbalance in women: Women during menopause are prone to depression due to declining estrogen, which alters other hormones and chemicals, leading to behavioral changes. Antidepressants are less effective, but exercise helps alleviate symptoms. Oral contraceptives may also cause depression, especially in women with premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, supplementing vitamin B6 under medical guidance can help relieve depression. Additionally, postpartum depression is common, particularly during the baby’s first 1–6 months, due to hormonal changes after childbirth.<depression>