How can depression develop?
What role can stressful experiences play in depression?
Loss, persistent strain and other difficult circumstances can be associated with increased risk. This does not mean everyone under strain develops depression, or that a person must be able to identify an obvious trigger. [1][2]
General information for adults. Not medical or psychotherapeutic advice; not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment.
Sources & editorial status
- WHO: Depressive disorder (depression) ↗
International overview. Used for the distinction from mood changes and contributing factors.
- IQWiG · InformedHealth.org: Depression ↗
Plain-language overview. Used for terminology, symptoms and course.
Compiled from an existing article: 31 October 2026. Source comparison in the article: 29 October 2026. Prepared with AI assistance; independent medical review is pending. Editorial compilation; independent medical expert review has not taken place.
Editorial responsibility: Mario V.W.B.R. Obst. Known limitations and the use of each source are explained alongside the reference. A source-comparison date is not the publication date of the original source.