… In other words, your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills matter just as much—if not more so—than genetics. However, certain risk factors make you more vulnerable to depression. Causes and risk factors for depression • Loneliness • Lack of social support • Recent stressful life experiences • Family history of depression • Marital or relationship problems • Financial strain • Early childhood trauma or abuse • Alcohol or drug abuse Unemployment or underemployment Health problems or …