Is depression hereditary?

I do not believe that depression is hereditary.I feel that in order for someone to be and feel depressed, there should be true reasons and causes for that, rather just coming through genetics and heritance.

The genetic influence is only partially responsible for causing depression. It doesn't mean that just because you inherit a gene you'll develop major depression.

No, it isn't. You can inherit a "predisposition", but not the depression itself. It means that you can be more likely to develop it if you pass through may sorrows and troubles, but you are not "condemned" by your genes :)

A family history of depression may increase the risk. It's thought that depression is a complex trait that may be inherited across generations.

While it is not the same as health issues that run in a family (such as a history of heart disease), depression can seeem to be more common in families with a history of depression. However depression can still affect anyone.

There are many causes of depression: environment, experiences, genes, etc. Depression can be hereditary. Those whose parents had or have depression increases the likely hood of the children also developing depression

It is, but it's never going to be guaranteed in the next generation, like most traits. It's generally perceived that approximately 40 percent of people with depression can trace it in some way genetically. However, it can also be learned or adopted in other ways.

I believe it is said that you can be predisposed to mental illness genetically, but depression is also affected by your environment (perhaps especially during childhood/early development).

Yes, depression can be hereditary, and if that is the case it's generally a little different as you generally have nothing to be depressed about.

There are genetic factors that play a role in your likelihood of getting depression. This does NOT mean you will be depressed if a family member is. You can also have depression even if no one else in your family does. When talking to a doctor, therapist, psychiatrist etc, they will usually ask about your family history. This is why.

It certainly can be, but there are so many other causes of depression - some of which we cannot fully understand. Let me tell you though, no matter the cause of your depression - it is not your fault. No one asks to become depressed, and it is a really painful and isolating experience. Whether it’s a chemical imbalance, a result of a traumatic event, something you’ve had since birth or a condition that has developed over-time... we are here to support you with your struggles. You’re more than welcome to reach out to a volunteer on here 24/7, and we will be there to listen to you.

Yes, from what I have read, as well as my own personal experience, there is a strong genetic component to depression. This does not mean that you will get depression for sure, but instead it means that you are more likely to have depression at some time in your life. For example, I have clinical depression, my father has depression, and my grandmother (his mother) does too. My depression started when I was a teenager. With medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes (getting enough sleep and exercise), I manage my depression very well. Sometimes it gets worse when I am in stressful situations.