The Ups and Downs of Depression Through Life

Depression isn’t a one-off event—it’s an emotional weather system that ebbs and flows with life’s seasons. You might first encounter it in your twenties, during exam stress or identity crises. Or it may strike later—amid the loneliness of middle age, the grief of bereavement, or the hormonal shifts of menopause and aging.

Roots in Biology and Genetics

Your genes can predispose you to depression. Twin studies consistently show a 40–50% heritability for major depressive disorder—identical twins are far more likely to both experience it than fraternal twins. That genetic soil doesn’t guarantee depression, but it makes someone more vulnerable—especially when life stress hits.
This vulnerability connects to the diathesis-stress model, which explains why two people facing the same hardship can react very differently: one becomes depressed, the other doesn’t.
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Life Transitions That Bring It On

Major life changes can trigger depression, even if your past has been smooth. Hormonal shifts, like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can alter your brain chemistry and raise depression risk.

Hair loss, aging, chronic illness—these affect self-image and resilience, sometimes provoking low mood.

Bereavement, unemployment, financial strain—losing a job, loved one, or facing poverty can overwhelm your emotional defenses.

Socioeconomic pressure is also real
Those in lower-income brackets experience depression more often, driven by stress, limited access to support, and ongoing hardship.

Recovery on the Road—and Restarting Along the Way
It’s common to feel better after therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Perhaps you regain energy through exercise, sleep improves, or negative thoughts ease. You rebuild routines, reflect on your experience, and find purpose.

But life doesn’t stand still. The next life stage—such as retirement, empty nest, or a sudden windfall—can upset that balance and bring depression back. Even something as seemingly great as winning the lottery can trigger a slump. In fact, two German women were hospitalised for depression after winning over €1 million. The so-called “Sudden Wealth Syndrome” brings identity crises, mistrust, and anxiety, despite financial gain .

Studies highlight this mixed picture: large US winners often experience continued life satisfaction, but not lasting improvements in daily mood—and those with lower education may be most vulnerable to stress after winning.

Treatment: Mind, Body, and Community

Recovery from depression isn’t usually a solo effort. Here’s what helps:

Psychological Therapy
• CBT encourages noticing and challenging “all-or-nothing” or catastrophic thoughts.
• Mindfulness helps break cycles of rumination by anchoring you in the moment.

Lifestyle Foundations
• Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, good sleep, and social connection build emotional resilience.
• Yoga and meditation calm the nervous system and help you withstand stress.

Medical Support
• Antidepressants may rebalance neurotransmitters for moderate to severe symptoms.
• Addressing hormonal or medical concerns (e.g., thyroid, menopause) may also ease mood.

Support Systems
• Family and friends help by listening, spotting warning signs, and encouraging professional support.
• Structured group programmes can help normalize experience and prevent relapse.

The Journey Isn’t Linear
Depression often returns—especially during sudden changes or setbacks. The good news? Each recovery builds coping skills, self-awareness, and resilience.

Bottom Line
Depression arises from genes, hormones, life events, health, and poverty—it isn’t your fault. It manifests differently at each stage of life. Recovery is possible through therapy, lifestyle changes, medical support, and social connection. But even positive changes—like winning the lottery, retirement, or relocation—can trigger a new episode. Recognising the signs early and reconnecting with support helps you stay well across life’s ups and downs.

If you’re facing another wave—or gearing up for a new life challenge—know this: you don’t have to do it alone. At the London Clinic Psychologist, we offer expert, compassionate support to guide you through every transition.