Is depression hereditary?

Written by Pang Ji Cheng
Psychiatry and Psychology
Updated on February 01, 2025
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Depression has a certain hereditary tendency. Studies involving large samples have found that if first-degree relatives of patients with depression have the disorder, the incidence of the disease in their offspring is significantly higher than in the general population. Additionally, studies on twins have shown that the concordance rate of depression in monozygotic twins is significantly higher than in dizygotic twins. Research in genetic studies has revealed that depression is a polygenic disorder. Therefore, it is possible for offspring of parents with depression not to inherit the disease. The onset of depression is often influenced by genetic factors, biochemical factors, and various social and psychological factors. Thus, the genetic probability of developing depression is generally higher than in the general population.

Other Voices

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Written by Du Rui Xia
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What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

In cases of postpartum depression, women primarily exhibit emotional excitability, as well as anxiety, feelings of helplessness, guilt, and concerns about being unable to support their child. Severe cases may involve fears of the child suffering in the world, leading to infanticidal actions, and even suicide. This condition generally occurs more frequently in women who have a history of mental illness. Following childbirth, due to physical discomfort, emotional instability, and factors such as sleep disturbances, these adverse reactions are likely to be exacerbated.

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Written by Pang Ji Cheng
Psychiatry and Psychology
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Symptoms of depression

The symptoms of depression almost always include persistent low mood throughout most of the day, and patients generally lack interest or pleasure in all activities. Patients may exhibit psychomotor agitation or retardation, and experience fatigue, weakness, and feelings of inadequacy. They may feel that their lives are worthless and meaningless, have feelings of self-reproach or guilt, and suffer from poor concentration and indecisiveness. Recurrent thoughts or behaviors of suicide may occur, and some patients may even make specific plans for suicide. Therefore, these are the primary symptoms of depression. Some patients may present primarily with physical symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, palpitations, frequent or urgent urination, and gastrointestinal discomfort. It is important to conduct relevant examinations to avoid misdiagnosis.

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Written by Pang Ji Cheng
Psychiatry and Psychology
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What causes depression?

The causes of depression are not yet clear, and it may be closely related to multiple factors such as biological, psychological, and social factors. Firstly, from a biological perspective, depression may involve genetics, biochemical factors, and endocrine factors, especially closely related to the secretion of serotonin and norepinephrine. Secondly, psychological factors. The psychological characteristics and personality traits of patients, especially before the onset of depression, are closely related. Particularly, individuals with a depressive disposition are often more likely to develop depression. Thirdly, social environmental factors. Particularly, encountering major negative life events is often an important contributing factor to clinical depressive episodes. Therefore, the onset of depression is not caused by a single factor, but likely the result of multifactorial interactions, ultimately leading to the disease onset.

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Written by Zhou Yan
Geriatrics
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Dietary Cautions for Geriatric Depression

Patients with geriatric depression currently find antidepressant medications and electroconvulsive therapy to be quite effective. However, due to lack of appetite and poor mental responsiveness in these patients, their nutritional status often remains unfulfilled. Therefore, we should enhance the dietary nutrition of elderly patients with depression. The focus should be on protein-rich foods such as eggs, shrimp, fish, chicken, and duck. Additionally, attention should be given to including roughage in the diet, ensuring daily fruit intake and vegetables in every meal.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does postpartum depression last?

Postpartum depression can generally be cured within a year in 70% of women. In families where such cases occur, it is important to pay attention, communicate more with the patient, and provide sufficient care and guidance. Additionally, timely psychological and pharmacological treatments should be administered to boost the patient's confidence and self-worth. It is also necessary to use antidepressant medications under a doctor's guidance that do not enter the breast milk, meaning they do not affect breastfeeding.