I would like to know if there is a connection between depression and heredity?

Question

I would like to know if there is a connection between depression and heredity?

Answer 1

It can be. Depression is a form of mental illness (more of an imbalance then illness, but along the same effects). So, it is proven that mental illness can be passed down through generations.



Depression also has to do with environment (not as much as it does with chemicals and balance) So, if you were raised in a family where one parent or a significant family member was suffering from depression, you learned at an early age to imitate these behaviors.



The most important thing in fighting depression is knowing that it can be controlled with Healthy diet, Dr.s supervision, Exercise (when you exercise and eat right your body produces more of the chemicals your body needs to feel good. Also, Sunshine is important for processing your vitamin intake. If with all of this you are still having a difficult time, Medications may be needed. Only your Dr can know if they are right for you (wow, that just sounded like a commercial - lol)



But after all this rambling, Yes, it can be hereditary.

Answer 2

there have been lots of studies in this....and theyre are alot of connections. they are not really shure weither it is genetic or if it is learned.

when you concider that depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain (lack of seritonin)it would make sence that it would be atleast in part herditary. i also know that a mother mood /temperment durring pregnancy can affect how the baby feels therefore the babys brain develops around certain tendencys ( ex a lack of seritonin in the mother would also create a lack of seritonin in the baby because this would register to the babys cells as normal)simular to the effects of a mother doing drugs durring pregnancy this would imply a birth defect. other develop depression later on in their lives. I beleive they are all possable and that its either a case by case scenario or a combination of them all....hope i have helped

Answer 3

Yes I have been learning about this and even if parents don't show signs but a g-parent has had any type of depression there is a chance that the children will also

Answer 4

yes. It seems to follow families. It may not be proven just yet but I think there is. I have seen where it just seems to run in the family. I think it runs in mine. I get depressed for no reason but I know my whole family does.

Whats important is knowing how to get yourself out of it before you get too deep.

Answer 5

I'm sure there is, although it can be defeated if you realize that many people in your family suffer from it, and of course with medication! It's just like being overweight, which is hereditary...with the proper diet and exercise you can change it!

Answer 6

Yes. Someone without depression in their family can get depressed too, but it seems more prevalent in families where other family members have suffered from it.

Answer 7

yes, the fact the myself two brothers my dad his dad and a grandmother and two cousins all have depression. I just thought we weren't much fun at parties

Answer 8

Yes, definitely! Great part of it, as in any other mental disturbance, can be caused by genes.

Answer 9

There is a connection.

Answer 10

alot of people think so its one of the questions they ask when diagnosing a person

Answer 11

definitely yes.

Answer 12

if you live with your family that helps

Answer 13

yes there is im affraid

Answer 14

Yes, it can be inherited....