Trauma or significant losses.
Everyone’s life is filled with changes, but not all of them are pleasant. Divorce, the death of a loved one, losing a job, betrayal, or a serious diagnosis — such events often leave a deep emotional mark. At first, it may seem like you’ve managed to maintain your mental health, but over time, you may begin to experience feelings of discouragement, loss of interest in life, insomnia, and anxiety. These can be signs of the onset of depression. For example, when someone loses someone very close, like a mother, spouse, or child, the first few weeks are filled with tears and shock. But over time, instead of relief, emptiness sets in. When a person loses their inner balance, they gradually stop enjoying what used to bring pleasure. They start to avoid social interaction, lose emotional openness, and retreat into themselves. This state doesn’t arise by chance — sometimes, the psyche simply doesn’t have time to process the intense emotional burden. Over time, this can worsen the overall condition and lead to the development of depression. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your emotions, not ignore internal signals, and not be afraid to seek help.
High anxiety levels.
Numerous studies confirm that when anxiety becomes constant and arises without clear reasons, it becomes a serious risk factoring for developing depression. A person with high anxiety constantly worries about their health, future, job, loved ones — even when everything seems stable on the outside. This chronic tension exhausts the nervous system. Over time, feelings of helplessness, emotional fatigue, and a loss of interest in what once inspired you may emerge. Anxiety gradually shifts to indifference, lethargy, and a loss of energy — all signs of a depressive state. Often, a person appears functional on the outside: they work, socialize, fulfill responsibilities. But inside, they live in constant tension, doubts, and fears. If you experience constant worry, sleep disturbances, panic attacks, or persistent tension in your body, do not ignore these signals. Consulting a psychologist or psychotherapist will help you understand the source of anxiety and find ways to support yourself. In some cases, a specialist may also recommend medications (such as Apo-Moclobemide) to reduce anxiety, which are selected individually. Timely intervention helps avoid deeper emotional exhaustion, restores internal balance, and preserves quality of life.
Professional burnout.
One of the common factors that can lead to the development of depression is professional burnout. This is not just ordinary fatigue after a long day, but deep exhaustion that occurs when a person works under constant stress, high responsibility, and demanding expectations for an extended period. A person experiencing burnout may lose interest in their work, start avoiding communication with colleagues, and feel indifference or disappointment. Often, there is a sense that their efforts are in vain, and achieving results seems impossible. As a result, self-esteem decreases, self-confidence disappears, and gradually a state close to depression develops. In the modern world, where work often occupies most of a person’s time and attention, and rest is postponed for “later,” professional burnout has become a widespread issue. If not addressed in time, it can seriously harm mental health.
Moving or changing your environment.
Moving to a new city, starting a new job or school, or changing your usual social circle — all of these are significant changes that can trigger stress. Even if the changes seem positive, adapting to a new environment is often accompanied by feelings of loneliness, confusion, and a lack of support. You may feel out of place, have difficulty forming new connections, or simply miss what you left behind. These emotions can accumulate over time and eventually lead to the development of a depressive state. In some cases, it’s important not to ignore your feelings and to consult a psychologist or psychotherapist. If depression is diagnosed, a specialist may recommend not only psychotherapy but also prescribe antidepressants (for example Arrow-Amitriptyline, Bupron SR) to support emotional well-being and alleviate symptoms.
High personal expectations and perfectionism.
When a person constantly sets excessively high standards for themselves and strives for perfection in everything, it can lead to emotional exhaustion. Perfectionism makes them focus not on achievements, but on flaws, so even success doesn’t bring joy. These individuals often fear making mistakes, doubt their actions, and constantly feel that they are not doing enough. This creates constant internal pressure and feelings of anxiety. Over time, frustration accumulates, self-esteem decreases, and motivation disappears. You may start to feel tired, powerless and lose the meaning of what you are doing. This state can gradually lead to chronic stress and, eventually, become a cause of depression.