Besides these causes, there can be different depression relapse triggers. For example:
1. Bereavement
This is one of the significant triggers of depression. Nevertheless, diagnosis of this is not easy because it is confused with a normal reaction to loss. In addition, it varies from one person to another on how grief is perceived.
In some cases, this sense of loss and grief manifests into certain symptoms like depression, anxiety, anger, disturbed sleep, high stress, changes in the immune system, etc.
2. Rejection
It is very common among humans to need approval from others. Thus, rejection in any state can become difficult for some people to handle. As a result, there are many who have a high rejection sensitivity.
Rejection and depression have a co-dependent relationship. On the one hand, social exclusion becomes a cause for depression; on the other, depression elevates rejection sensitivity. This is because those suffering from depression have low self-esteem and are more sensitive towards rejection.
3. Stress
Psychological stress is another trigger of depression. In addition, those who undergo extreme stress develop hormonal changes. These changes then result in some physical changes in brain cells as well.
Moreover, psychological stress activates the immune system. This includes releasing cytokines; these are immune system chemicals related to depression. Since the immune system chemicals become active in the brain, it produces symptoms of mental illness.
4. Lack of Sleep
Changes in the sleep cycle may trigger depression. For example, around 75% of depression patients have insomnia, and 40% have hypersomnia.
In a clinical trial, two adult twins were examined. The results state that sleeping for five hours less has a chance of doubling depression. While a study with adolescents showed sleeping for six hours or less per night can increase the risks of depression by 25% to 38%.
5. Rumination
Rumination is a situation when grief goes out of hand. Unfortunately, those going through this phenomenon continue to dwell with grief rather than making efforts to come out of it. In some cases, individuals get angry with others who have a better grasp of handling similar situations.
This is another trigger for depression. Besides, it can worsen prolonged depression and pose a risk for suicidal thoughts.
6. Financial Problems
Monetary problems are one such condition that most people face. Nonetheless, a study showed the effects of low income is associated with mental health risks.
However, this continues as a vicious cycle. In addition, financial problems cause stress and depression, worsening the existing problems.
7. Transitions in Life
Some people find it hard to accept minor transitions in their life, even if it is a positive changes. For instance, moving to a new city after getting promoted. In addition, the sense of leaving your family behind can impact one's mind negatively.
There is a subtype of depression known as adjustment disorder. This causes depressive symptoms or clinical depression after some changes in life.
8. Substance Use
Doctors opine substance use and depression are correlated as they share common risk factors. Often these two overlap and trigger one another.
Many people get addicted to substances as a process of self-medication. Most people do not even know their mental health issues are treatable. One should note the occurrence of substance use and depression at the same time needs immediate medical aid.