Some of the negative life experiences that may cause depression, and some other causes for depression, include:
- The death of a loved one.
- A divorce, separation, or breakup of a relationship.
- Losing custody of children, or feeling that a child custody decision is not fair.
- A serious loss, such as a loss of a job, house, or money.
- A serious illness.
- A terminal illness.
- A serious accident.
- Chronic physical pain.
- Intense emotional pain.
- Loss of hope.
- Being victimized (domestic violence, rape, assault, etc).
- A loved one being victimized (child murder, child molestation, kidnapping, murder, rape, assault, etc.).
- Physical abuse.
- Verbal abuse.
- Sexual abuse.
- Unresolved abuse (of any kind) from the past.
- Feeling "trapped" in a situation perceived as negative.
- Feeling that things will never "get better."
- Feeling helpless.
- Serious legal problems, such as criminal prosecution or incarceration.
- Feeling "taken advantage of."
- Inability to deal with a perceived "humiliating" situation.
- Inability to deal with a perceived "failure."
- Alcohol abuse.
- Drug abuse.
- A feeling of not being accepted by family, friends, or society.
- A horrible disappointment.
- Feeling like one has not lived up to his or her high expectations or those of another.
- Bullying. (Adults, as well as children, can be bullied).
- Low self-esteem.
