being born to a parent or close relative who has had depression may increase the risk.
Current factors like poor housing, money worries, stress, relationship problems, physical illness or loneliness.
past issues like bereavement, abuse, bullying, job loss, and relationship break-up.
people with a more sensitive personality or who have perfectionist tendencies are more vulnerable to depression. It’s not what happens to us but how we deal with it that matters.
Most people with depression probably fall into two or more of these categories, and the more factors that apply the greater the risk. However, it’s important to remember that sometimes there doesn’t seem to be any reason. There are many other symptoms of depression which you should be aware of to look out for in yourself and those around you.
You don’t have to have depression to look after your mental health. There are many things you can do to help prevent you from becoming mentally unwell including exercising and eating a healthy balanced diet.
If you are concerned about someone, whether that’s a friend or a work colleague, then have a look at the page helping someone with depression for some useful, practical tips on the help and support you can give to help that person cope with their illness.
AWARE is the depression charity for Northern Ireland and the only charity working exclusively for those with depression and bipolar disorder.
Aware Defeat Depression, known as AWARE, Queen Street, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, BT48 7EQ, Company No: NI30447. Registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland with charity registration number NIC100561
40-44 Duncairn Gardens,
Belfast,
BT15 2GG
Tel: 028 9035 7820
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
2 Crawford Square
Derry
BT48 7HR
Tel: 028 7126 0602
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.