Causes

The death of loved one.

A divorce, separation, or breakup of relationship.

Losing custody of children, or feeling that child custody decision is not fair.

A serious loss, such as loss of job, house, or money.

A serious illness.

A terminal illness.

A serious accident.

Chronic physical pain.

Intense emotional pain.

Loss of hope.

Being victimized (domestic violence, rape, assault, etc).

A loved one being victimized (child murder, child molestation, kidnapping, murder, rape, assault, etc).

Physical abuse.

Verbal abuse.

Sexual abuse.

Unresolved abuse (of any kind) the past.

Feeling "trapped" in situation perceived as negative.

Feeling that things will never "get better."

Feeling helpless.

Serious legal problems, such as criminal prosecution or incarceration.

Feeling "taken advantage of."

Inability to deal with perceived "humiliating" situation.

Inability to deal with perceived "failure."

Alcohol abuse.

Drug abuse.

A feeling of not being accepted by family, friends, or society.

A horrible disappointment.

Feeling like one has not lived up to his or her high expectations or those another.

Bullying. (Adults, as well as children, can bullied).

Low self-esteem.