Exit events are especially likely to trigger depression when they occur in a way that humiliates or devalues the individual, rather than simply involving loss.

Humiliation Increases Depression Risk From Exit Events

Exit events are a type of stressful life event involving the departure of an important person, such as a death, a divorce or separation, or a family member leaving home. Exit events often occur prior to the onset of a depressive episode (Paykel, 2003).

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Research consistently shows that stressful life events can precipitate depressive episodes. These events often involve significant losses, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or separation, as well as major difficulties related to health or finances.

Stressful Life Events as Triggers for Depression

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Individuals exposed to traumatic events in their youth, such as parental separation, family conflict, or abuse, face a significantly higher probability of developing depression at any stage of their lives. A comprehensive review of numerous studies confirmed that childhood maltreatment more than doubles the likelihood of an individual developing recurring and persistent depression.

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