How chronic stress leads to depression

We are all aware of the harmful effects of stress, but many of us aren’t aware that it can, in fact, lead to depression. And while we all suffer from a little stress every now and then, chronic stress – one we experience for long periods of time - is the one that you need to be careful about.

 

Symptoms to look out for include loss of interest in activities, anxiety, irregular sleep patterns and feelings of sadness.

 

Here are five ways that stress can lead to depression:

 

1. Chronic stress won’t lead to depression for everyone - according to research, biological factors can play a role. A Stanford psychology professor believes, “genetic markers may predispose depression as a response to stress for some people.”

 

2. If you have experienced depression in the past you are more likely for it to be triggered by chronic stress.

 

3. How you perceive yourself also plays a role in stress triggering depression, especially if you suffer from low-self esteem or other personality vulnerabilities.

 

4. Stress affects your motivation to maintain a healthy lifestyle which in turn will affect your mood, your want to connect with people or your need to exercise.

 

5. Stress can disrupt your eating and sleeping habits which can leave you feeling moody with a low mental health.

 

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Mind on 0300 1233 393.