Depression: Can the Condition be Hereditary?

A family history of depression is often touted as the reason for depression in many patients. However, whether or not genetics plays a role in depression is still inconclusive. Manic depression and bipolar disorder does seem to have some genetic basis however, most other forms of depression seem to be learnt rather than inherited. Scientists who say that depression cannot be inherited claim that chemical changes in the brain lead to depression. No two people have the same brain composure. It is not possible for parents to pass on their brain composure to their children. Therefore, there is no likelihood of depression being inherited. Other studies have shown that people who come from families with a history of depression have less activity in a region of the brain called subgenual prefrontal cortex. They also have lower levels of the hormone serotonin. This suggests that the pattern could be inherited. There is still no sufficient data to conclude whether or not depression is hereditary. Another fact to remember is that depression occurs as a result of a person’s circumstance, their outlook towards life, their interpersonal relationships and their attitude. These factors are influenced mainly by their family environment. This could explain the reason why depression seems to run in some families. Although a family history of depression does seem to increase ones predisposition to the condition, it does not guarantee that one will develop depression.