triggering depression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "triggering depression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing causes or factors that lead to the onset of depression. Example: "Certain life events, such as loss or trauma, can be triggering depression in vulnerable individuals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The student support website Students Against Depression says economic problems are the "most significant factor in triggering depression at university".

The Guardian

Meanwhile, they argue, the damage it can inflict on self-esteem, triggering depression and even suicide, is well documented.

The New York Times

In your case, there are a number of changes in your life that may be triggering depression, including moving away from home, final exams, the dorm environment, academic pressure, and the change in seasons, to name a few possibilities.

Columbia University

As the scientists pressed on, it became clear that this was a two-way process: not only could depression cause inflammation, but crucially, inflammation from other causes seems to be triggering depression.

BBC

Data supporting a photoperiodic mechanism triggering depression are already quite strong: both evidence for delayed melatonin offsets and delayed awakenings among depressed patients and evidence that forcing the melatonin offset earlier (with bright light treatment or propranolol) is antidepressant.

F1000Research

Because recurrence of depressive disorder is high, especially among people with diabetes [ 32], the increased incidence of depressive episodes may be due, in part, to diabetes or stressors related to diabetes triggering depression more frequently in people with vulnerability for depression, i.e., people with a history of depression.

Diabetologia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Alcohol is a depressive substance and can trigger depression in bipolar patients.

WikiHow

This component refers to the fact that despite that the lifetime chances of becoming clinically depressed is high and that there are many life stresses that can trigger depression, there is hope for recovery with treatment using antidepressants.

BMC Psychiatry

Still another possibility is that factories in industrialized countries are releasing substances that can trigger depression.

The New York Times - Science

And, the loss of independence and constriction of activities that come with failing vision may trigger depression.

Harvard University

Some women might also feel overwhelmed by the major changes in their life, which could trigger depression.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing mental health, use "triggering depression" to accurately describe factors that initiate depressive episodes, especially in individuals with pre-existing vulnerabilities. Be specific about the triggers when possible.

Common error

Avoid stating that something definitively "triggers depression" in everyone. Depression is complex, and triggers vary among individuals. Instead, frame it as a potential or significant factor for some.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "triggering depression" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun within a sentence. It typically identifies a cause or factor that initiates or exacerbates depressive symptoms, as illustrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "triggering depression" is a gerund phrase used to describe factors that initiate or worsen depressive episodes. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly appears in academic, news, and scientific contexts. While "triggering depression" is valid, be mindful of its potential to overgeneralize, as individual triggers vary. Alternatives like "inducing depression" or "precipitating depression" can offer nuanced meaning. Overall, the phrase is a useful tool for discussing the causes and exacerbation of depression in a clear and objective manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inducing depression

This alternative uses a different verb to convey the action of causing depression.

precipitating depression

This alternative implies a sudden onset or hastening of depression.

causing depression

This is a more direct and common way to express the same idea.

leading to depression

This alternative suggests a process or pathway resulting in depression.

giving rise to depression

This phrase conveys a more formal and emphatic sense of causation.

sparking depression

This alternative suggests a sudden and forceful initiation of depression.

setting off depression

This phrase implies a chain reaction leading to depression.

activating depression

This alternative suggests making something latent become active.

fostering depression

Suggests a slower, more nurturing causation of depression.

underlying cause of depression

Moves from the action to an attributing factor.

FAQs

How can I use "triggering depression" in a sentence?

You can use "triggering depression" to describe factors that initiate or worsen depressive episodes. For example, "Economic problems are the most significant factor in "triggering depression" at university."

What are some alternatives to saying "triggering depression"?

Alternatives include "inducing depression", "precipitating depression", or "causing depression". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to say that something "triggers" depression in everyone?

No, depression is a complex condition with varying triggers. What "triggers depression" in one person may not affect another. It's more accurate to say something is a potential or significant factor.

Can physical health issues be "triggering depression"?

Yes, inflammation or chronic pain from physical health issues can be "triggering depression". It's a bidirectional relationship where physical and mental health influence each other.