Hereditary Depression Facts

Two kinds of depression called manic depression and bipolar disorder seem to be hereditary. Other forms of depression have very weak links with heredity. There does seem to be a predisposition for depression in some families but depression on the whole occurs as a result of one’s attitude, lifestyle, and relationship problems. Studies on whether or not depression is hereditary have shown contradicting results. Some studies say that the structure of the brain has a link to depression. This is not inherited and therefore depression also is not hereditary. On the other hand, other studies regarding brain activities in certain areas of the brain suggest that there could be some genetic association between depression and heredity. Studies on people with manic and bipolar disorders have proved beyond doubt that these conditions are genetic. If a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle in a family suffers from bipolar disorder, chances are higher that the subsequent generations will also inherit the condition. Similar studies in twins have shown that if one twin has bipolar disorder, chances are that the second twin will also develop the disease. The risk of manic depression and bipolar disorder is increased by 4 to 15% in people who have a family history of these conditions when compared to people who do not have a family history.