Millions of people in the U.S. suffer from depression. More women than men
suffer from this health condition. Major depression is an illness that affects
a
person's body, feelings, thoughts, and behavior.
Certain things can trigger an episode of depression. They include a stressful
life event, genetics, physical illness, medicines, substance abuse, or hormone
levels.
Any one of these factors, or a combination of them, can make depression more likely.
The
following questionnaire can help you assess your risk for depression.
Loss of a spouse, family member, or loved one Divorce Loss of a job A serious illness or surgery A serious financial downfall None
Alcoholism in any
first-degree family member(s) (mother, father, brother,
sister) Bipolar
disorder
Depression Suicide (attempted or
committed) None
Heart attack
(myocardial infarction).
Alcoholism Type 2
diabetes Type 1
diabetes Kidney
disease HIV positive or HIV
infection Anorexia
nervosa Bulimia
binge/purge Hepatitis
C Multiple
sclerosis Suicide
attempt Bipolar
disorder
Depression Cancer None