Psychological factors are central to the development and persistence of depression. These include the way we think and what we’ve experienced in our lives. It also involves our personality traits and coping mechanisms we may have adopted in the past.

Let’s dive into more detail.

1. Negative thinking patterns

Folks who are depressed often exhibit cognitive distortions. This is a term that comes from an evidence-based therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Cognitive distortions affect the way we process and react to situations.

These distortions are maladaptive, which means that the thoughts or behaviors that don’t help you respond or adapt to your environment. Some examples include:

• All-or-nothing thinking: Sometimes we think if we fail a test or forget to send our child’s lunch money with them to school, that means we’re the worst student or a failure of a parent. (e.g., “If I fail at this task, I’m a complete failure.”)
  
  
• Catastrophizing: The belief or anticipation of the worst possible outcome. For instance, if my spouse goes out without me, they will definitely cheat on me.
  
  
• Overgeneralization: If we draw broad conclusions from a single event, we’re overgeneralizing. This might manifest

2. Low self-esteem

The thought patterns above can contribute to a negative self-image easily. This can reinforce depressed feelings.

People with depression often have a poor self-concept, feeling unworthy or inadequate. Chronic self-criticism can erode mental well-being and heighten vulnerability to depression.

3. Childhood trauma

Experiences of neglect, abuse, or significant loss in early childhood are strongly associated with the development of depression in adulthood. These events can alter the brain’s stress response system and affect emotional regulation.

Adverse childhood experiences have been linked to biological health problems as well. It’s difficult to cope with chronic illnesses which, as discussed earlier, can lead to depression.

4. Stressful life events

Events such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or financial problems can trigger depressive episodes, particularly in individuals already at risk.

These experiences are often unavoidable. Having a support and seeking treatment can help ease the pain, however.