Can Someone With Depression Become Violent?

Munira Electricwala

Psychologist | Researcher | Psychological Scientist | Writer

26 Sep 20244 min read

Young child getting physical abuse from parent - Can Someone With Depression Become Violent?

From Despair to Danger: Can Depression Lead to Violent Behavior?

Violence and mental health are often intertwined in complex ways, raising concerns about the potential for individuals with depression to exhibit aggressive behaviour. While many associate depression primarily with sadness and withdrawal, research indicates that it can also manifest as hostility or explosive reactions in some individuals. Understanding this relationship is crucial, as it varies significantly among individuals due to factors like the severity of depression, personal history, and emotional regulation.

Understanding Violence and Depression by Definition

Violence is defined as the intentional use of physical force or power against oneself or another person, which can result in injury, psychological harm, or even death. It encompasses a range of behaviors from verbal aggression to physical assaults.

Depression, on the other hand, is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and various emotional and physical problems. It can lead to significant impairments in daily functioning and quality of life.

Can Violence Cause Depression?

The relationship between violence and depression is bidirectional; while depression can lead to violent behaviours, exposure to violence can also exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Yes, there is a link between depression and violence, but most people with depression are not violent. Studies suggest people with depression may have a higher risk of violent behavior, but other factors such as genetics, personality disorders, and substance abuse also contribute. Importantly, individuals receiving effective mental health treatment are no more violent than the general population.

Present Research Findings on the Connection Between Violence and Depression

Studies Suggests: Research (2015) has shown that individuals with depression are approximately three times more likely to commit violent crimes compared to those without depression. This correlation remains significant even after accounting for factors like substance abuse and previous violent behaviour.

Role of Emotional Dysregulation: Emotional dysregulation, including impulsivity and anger, often accompanies depression. Individuals struggling with these emotions may be more prone to destructive behaviours when faced with frustration or stress.

Adolescent Studies: Longitudinal studies (2017) indicate that adolescents with depressive symptoms are at an increased risk for engaging in violent behaviours. These findings suggest that early intervention in depressive symptoms could help mitigate future violence risk.

Comorbidity with Substance Abuse: Many studies (2020) highlight that the presence of substance abuse alongside depression significantly heightens the risk for aggressive behaviour, suggesting a need for integrated treatment approaches

Gender Differences: Research (2012) indicates that the relationship between depression and violence may differ by gender, with males often exhibiting more overtly aggressive behaviours compared to females, who may display relational aggression or self-harm.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Emotional Symptoms

Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms

⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or aggressive behaviours, it's important to seek professional guidance tailored to individual needs. Mave Health offers personalized support programs and resources on tDCS designed to address these complex issues.

Do Read More About Depression

Conclusion

The relationship between violence and depression is intricate and multifaceted. While not all individuals with depression will exhibit violent tendencies, there is a notable risk associated with this mental health condition that warrants attention. Early identification and treatment of depressive symptoms are essential not only for improving mental health outcomes but also for reducing the potential for violence.

References

Cuncic, A., MA. (2024, April 22). The Connection Between Depression and Anger. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/connection-between-depression-and-anger-5085725
Fazel, S., Wolf, A., Chang, Z., Larsson, H., Goodwin, G. M., & Lichtenstein, P. (2015). Depression and violence: a Swedish population study. The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(3), 224–232. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2215-0366(14)00128-x
Gordon, J. P. (2022, February 16). The Connection Between Depression and Anger. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/depression-and-anger
Mrug, S., Madan, A., & Windle, M. (2015). Emotional Desensitization to Violence Contributes to Adolescents’ Violent Behavior. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology, 44(1), 75–86. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10802-015-9986-x
National Institutes on Drug Abuse (US). (2020, April 1). Common Comorbidities with Substance Use Disorders Research Report. NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK571451/
Ogundele, M. O. (2018). Behavioural and emotional disorders in childhood: A brief overview for paediatricians. World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, 7(1), 9–26. https://doi.org/10.5409/wjcp.v7.i1.9
Sadeh, N., Javdani, S., Finy, M. S., & Verona, E. (2011). Gender differences in emotional risk for self- and other-directed violence among externalizing adults. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 79(1), 106–117. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0022197
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