External circumstances

The relationship between parents and children is of great importance. In instances where this relationship is abusive, or negative, the risk of developing depression later in life is increased.
If as a child you lose a parent (through death or divorce), this can increase your risk of developing depression.

Unhappy Childhood
Many depressed people have memories of an unhappy childhood with emotionally cold, uninvolved and sometimes abusive parents.

Other circumstances during childhood can be a contributory cause of depression such as:

• physical and sexual abuse
• conflict and strife in the home
• parents who verbally abuse and belittle their children
• parents who openly show preference for other siblings
• parents who were unreasonably demanding, e.g. regarding expectations for school and/or sporting achievements.

Current external circumstances
External circumstances cannot cause a depression but they can contribute towards triggering depression if you are already predisposed to it.

Some of the stress factors which increase your risk of developing depression are:

• an emotionally dissatisfying or tumultuous relationship
• a stressful divorce
• a stressful or unsatisfactory work environment
• prolonged unemployment
• loneliness

Of these factors, loneliness is one of the most significant. You are at the greatest risk of developing depression if you don't have someone to support you and talk to. Being able to confide in a trusted friend or family member is vital to someone at risk of depression.