 Scientists do not completely understand the causes of teen depression, but they have discovered several key factors of it. As a role there is not just one cause that lead to teen depression, but a combination of some of the following factors:
- Disproportion of neurotransmitters, or chemicals that carry signals into the brain. Scientists think that this aspect of depression is genetic.
- Presence of a parent’s depression increases the risk that a child will have one. Scientists are unsure whether this is due to genetic factors or if attitudes leading to depression may be learned by the teen of a depressed parent.
- Stressful life changes such as divorce, move, death of loved one can lead to depression. Though sadness is a natural part of the grieving process, in case if a teenager cannot overcome this sadness it causes depression.
- Problems at home, at school, or in relationships.
- Negative outlook to personality characteristics or negative past experiences contribute to depression. Low self-esteem and hopelessness make a person more likely to suffer from depression.
- Teenagers, who face a trauma that they cannot deal with, or who have not learned to handle the normal stresses of life well, very often suffer from depression. Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse is one form of trauma associated with depression.
- Being a trouble-maker can also contribute to depression.
- Chronic diseases can trigger teen depression.
- Previous episodes of depression increase the risk of future depression, and can cause negative ideas.
- Presence of another untreated mental disorder such as an anxiety disorder, eating disorder, attention deficit or hyperactivity disorder can increase the risk of teen depression.
- Poor attitude toward your health such as not eating right, exercising, or getting enough sleep can cause teen depression.
- Teenage puberty can carry the risk of depression.
| 
