There are many reasons, or even a combination of reasons why a person
might become depressed. These include traumatic life experiences such
as the death of a loved one, certain diseases or medicines, substance
abuse, hormonal changes, or a family history of depression. Sometimes
the cause of depression is unknown. More often it is a combination
of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors that bring on
a depressive episode.1
Whatever the circumstances, depression is caused by an imbalance
of neurotransmitters in the brain. Normally, these “chemical
messengers” help nerve cells communicate with one another by
sending and receiving messages. They may also influence a person's
mood. In the case of depression, the availability of the chemical
messengers is low, so nerve cells can't communicate effectively. This
often results in symptoms of depression.
Find out how Lexapro®
(escitalopram oxalate) works to help correct this imbalance.
Reference: 1. National Institute of Mental Health. Depression/What Causes Depression. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/what-causes-depression.shtml Accessed 6/23/09