Depression is a complex, multifaceted condition. Interventions like talk therapy can help identify certain aspects of your depression and work to address them. One major focus of talk therapy is managing triggers. When you have depression, it is important to be aware of your triggers. Triggers are the various factors that cause or exacerbate your symptoms. Understanding these factors can help you receive effective targeted treatment. By knowing what triggers your symptoms, you can also take steps to avoid or cope with those triggers.
Common triggers for depression
- Chronic stress — Stress can get you down. Even brief periods of stress can be uncomfortable and often require rest and recovery. When you are exposed to prolonged stress, it can have a more significant effect. You may experience physical symptoms like fatigue and high blood pressure. Being constantly stressed out can also lead to mental health symptoms. Depression symptoms like feeling distressed and burnt out are sometimes incited by chronic stress. Chronic stress can come from many sources. Difficulties with work, relationships and finances may all play a role. Daily stress can wear down your mental fortitude, making you more susceptible to depression.
- Major life changes — Are you going through a big change in your life? Significant events like moving to a new city or losing a job can play a major role in triggering depression. These changes, even if they are mainly positive, can disrupt familiar routines and dynamics. You may feel uncomfortable or frightened by the uncertainty that comes with change. In some cases, the emotional and practical adjustments you need to make after a consequential event feel overwhelming. During these changes, having professional guidance can be highly beneficial. A licensed therapist can help guide you through the changes and recommend other treatments as necessary.
- Family dynamics — When growing up, your family dynamics can have a profound impact on your mental health. The way you connect with your parents is especially important. Having troubled relationships with your parents can lead to self-esteem issues and other depression symptoms. The effects of your familial relationships may not be felt immediately. For some people, growing up in a dysfunctional family can trigger depression symptoms later in life. Childhood trauma tends to have a lasting impact, especially when it is not addressed. A family history of depression can also increase your risk of experiencing depression.
- Health issues — Health issues like injuries and chronic health conditions can make you feel physically drained. These issues can also take a toll on your mental health. If you are recovering from a major injury, for example, you may experience frequent pain and discomfort. Physical pain is often tied to emotional distress. You might also be unable to physically engage with your regular activities because of health issues. Losing your ability to engage with the things you enjoy can cause persistent moods of sadness and frustration. If these moods continue and grow more intense, you may experience depression triggered mainly by your physical condition.
- Substance use — Substance use is often closely linked with depression. In many cases, alcohol and other drugs are used as coping mechanisms for dealing with emotional pain. These are not healthy ways to cope, and they can make your mental state worse over time. As someone’s mental health symptoms intensify, they may increase their substance use in response. This can create a vicious cycle. Receiving professional treatment can be key to breaking from the cycle and building better coping habits. Besides talk therapy, treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can yield great results in treating depression and managing triggers.
- Loneliness — Maintaining your mental health alone can be an incredibly difficult task. Social connection is often vital for mental well-being. When someone is lonely or isolated, sources for support are limited. This can make it easier to fall into negative patterns. When someone is depressed, one common symptom is social withdrawal. Self-isolating can worsen other symptoms and prevent support. If you are concerned about isolation triggering depression symptoms, seeking treatment is important. A supportive care team can help you make progress while serving as a reminder that you are not alone.
Avoid depression triggers with help from Active Path Mental Health
Recognizing depression triggers can help you take action before your condition gets worse. At Active Path Mental Health, we offer a range of interventions designed to help boost your mental health when you need it. Still struggling with depression after trying several treatments? We specialize in methods designed for addressing treatment-resistant depression. Our tailored care is meant to aid your progress each step of the way.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
