If a parent or sibling has depression, your risk can increase two to three times compared to someone without a family history.1 However, many people with a genetic predisposition don’t go on to develop depression, and many without a family history do.
In fact, scientists have identified multiple genes that may influence depression risk, but no single “depression gene” is known to exist.3 Learning more about the genetic components of depression can help explain why some people are more susceptible. However, it also highlights how depression is ultimately a result of the unique interplay between inherited life traits and life circumstances.
This page can work as a useful guide to understanding depression and genetics, as it explores:
What depression is
Mental health professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as their guide for diagnosing depression. According to the DSM-5, having major depressive disorder means experiencing five or more specific symptoms for at least two weeks. One of these symptoms must also be either a depressed mood or the loss of ability to feel interest or pleasure in things someone would normally care about.5
Other primary symptoms of depression can include:
Changes in appetite or weight
Further, MDD may also affect the brain’s structure and chemistry. Brain imaging studies have shown that people suffering from depression often have differences in the brain areas that help to regulate mood, thinking, sleep, and appetite.6 Also, neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine become imbalanced, disrupting the communication between brain cells.
Depression isn’t a character flaw – it has biological, psychological, and social causes that often require treatment to improve. Yet, with the right care, most people with depression can recover and regain their quality of life.
Major depressive disorder is the most common form of depression, but it’s not the only one. Other forms of depression include:7,8
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): A type of depression lasting at least two years, with symptoms that may be less severe than those of major depression.
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For example, the SLC6A4 gene controls the movement of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter and hormone, between brain cells.9 Your brain may struggle to regulate serotonin effectively when this gene contains variations, which can leave you more prone to depression. Additionally, the BDNF gene can affect how your neurons grow and form connections. Lower BDNF levels have been linked to depression and reduced brain plasticity, or, in other words, the brain’s ability to change and adapt.10
Stress response genes may also play an important role in depression development. For instance, the FKBP5 gene regulates how your body handles cortisol, the primary stress hormone, and certain FKBP5 variants can make you more sensitive to feeling stress and trauma.11
Additionally, the CRHR1 and NR3C1 genes can affect the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, which control your stress response system.,sup>12 When these genes are altered, your body might produce too much cortisol or struggle to shut down the body’s stress responses. Ultimately, these issues can lead to mood and memory problems.
For instance, genetic research has shown that identical twins struggle with depression in 40 to 50% of cases, compared to 20% for non-identical twins.1
Gender differences may also influence the genetic predisposition for developing MDD. In fact, women with a family history of depression could face twice the risk as men do.13
Further, the age at which depression occurs could also matter. Experiencing depression before the age of 30 has been linked to a stronger genetic influence than depression that occurs later in life.14
Having said as much, people’s environments may matter as much as genetics when it comes to the development of depression.
For example, difficult life events such as childhood trauma or chronic, long-term stress might activate gene variations that increase the risk of developing depression. Plus, people with a short allele of 5-HTTLPR show heightened stress sensitivity and higher rates of depression after a traumatic experience. Therefore, the combination of biology and experiences may make for a higher risk.16
Conversely, certain protective factors can counteract the genetic risks for depression. For instance, positive life experiences and close relationships can help to prevent the development of MDD, even when genetic vulnerability exists. Additionally, regular exercise, good sleep habits, stress management, and engagement with hobbies have a degree of influence over how your genes express themselves.
A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions. Depression support is a phone call away – call 866-478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.
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However, treatment approaches can differ based on the severity of your depression symptoms, as well as your unique circumstances. For instance, some people do best with outpatient treatment, working with a trained clinician (such as a licensed counselor or social worker). This approach can help them better understand the root causes of their feelings and new strategies for managing life’s challenges while also allowing them to remain at home.
In some cases, inpatient or residential treatment might be the most beneficial when depression has severely impacted someone’s day-to-day life. These programs allow a treatment team of professionals to address medication needs and therapeutic interventions at the same time, providing more support for those who need it.
People attending residential treatment often engage in individual therapy (such as CBT), group therapy, and other holistic treatments designed specifically for depression, along with many supportive services for wraparound care.
Both inpatient and outpatient treatment may be combined with antidepressant medications to help correct any chemical imbalances in your brain that might be contributing to your struggles. Your prescriber will work with you to find the best medication for your needs.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression and increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, helping to regulate your mood and emotional responses in daily life. Other medication options include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and atypical antidepressants. Both of these options are considered “first-line” medical treatment approaches for depression, but typically work best alongside talk therapies.
Ultimately, your treatment plan will address any potential genetic and environmental factors contributing to your depression. No two people are alike, and each plan is co-authored between participants and clinicians to address the most important aspects of your life and help you heal from depression’s impact.
If you or a loved one is struggling to cope with persistent sadness, withdrawal, or isolation, know that you don’t have to manage these symptoms alone. At A Mission For Michael Healthcare, our compassionate team is experienced with helping people recover from the effects of depression.
Your treatment journey begins with a comprehensive assessment to allow our team to fully understand the scope of your symptoms. Plus, our treatment programs are tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances. So whether you require inpatient, outpatient, group, or family support, we ensure you get the care you need.
If finances are a concern, our team can talk you through your options. Most insurance companies provide coverage for depression treatment, and we can help you navigate the process.
If you’re ready to take the next steps towards improved mental and physical well-being, contact A Mission For Michael today.
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No. A family history can raise your risk, but it’s not a guarantee. Genes can create vulnerability, while life experiences, stress, support, and healthy coping strategies all shape whether symptoms develop.
It can look that way, but it’s more accurate to think of inherited risk as a mix of many genes plus life circumstances. Someone may carry risk-related genes without noticeable symptoms, while another family member may experience depression if different triggers or stressors are present.
They can. Your genetic makeup may influence how your body metabolizes certain medications, which can impact effectiveness and side effects. Our prescribers work closely with you to find the best-fit option and reduce unnecessary trial-and-error when possible.
We offer a range of care levels based on what you need, including outpatient services and residential support when depression has significantly impacted daily life. Treatment may include evidence-based therapy (like CBT), group support, and medication management as appropriate.
Start with a comprehensive assessment. We’ll take time to understand your symptoms, family history, and current stressors, then recommend a plan that supports both your mental and physical well-being.
