Depression in women

Women experience depression twice as often as men. According to the National Mental Health Association: About one in every eight women can expect to develop clinical depression during their lifetime.

Stopping use of antidepressant medications Postpartum depression Many new mothers find themselves sad, angry and irritable, and experience crying spells soon after giving birth. These feelings — sometimes called the baby blues — are normal and generally subside within a week or two.

But more-serious or long-lasting depressed feelings may indicate postpartum depression, particularly if signs and symptoms include: It occurs in about 10 to 15 percent of women. Major hormonal fluctuations that influence mood The responsibility of caring for a newborn Predisposition to mood and anxiety disorders Birth complications Infant complications or special needs Poor social support Perimenopause and menopause Risk of depression may increase during the transition to menopause, a stage called perimenopause, when hormone levels may fluctuate erratically.

Depression risk also may rise during early menopause or after menopause — both times when estrogen levels are significantly reduced. But these factors may increase the risk: Life circumstances and cultural stressors can play a role, too.

Factors that may increase the risk of depression in women include: Unequal power and status.

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Women are much more likely to live in poverty than men, causing concerns such as uncertainty about the future and less access to community and health care resources. Some women face added stress from racial discrimination. These issues can cause feelings of negativity, low self-esteem and lack of control over life.

Often women work outside the home and still handle home responsibilities.

Signs and symptoms of depression in women

Many women deal with the challenges of single parenthood, such as working multiple jobs to make ends meet. Also, women may be caring for their children while also caring for sick or older family members.

Sexual or physical abuse. Women are more likely than men to experience sexual abuse. Other conditions that occur with depression Women with depression often have other mental health conditions that need treatment as well, such as: Anxiety commonly occurs along with depression in women.

Drug or alcohol abuse. Some women with depression also have some form of substance abuse or dependence.

Substance abuse can worsen depression and make it harder to treat. Even severe depression often can be successfully treated. Seek help if you have any signs and symptoms of depression, such as:Women with depression often have other mental health conditions that need treatment as well, such as: Anxiety.

Anxiety commonly occurs along with depression in women. Eating disorders.

Depression in Women: Understanding Female Depression | HealthyPlace

There's a strong link between depression in women and eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. How can the answer be improved?Tell us how.

Depression in women: Understanding the gender gap – Explore the unique biological, psychosocial, and cultural factors that may increase a woman’s risk for depression.

(Mayo Clinic) (Mayo Clinic) PMS & PMDD – Learn about premenstrual mood changes, including the symptoms and treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Depression in women may occur earlier, last longer, be more likely to recur, be more likely to be associated with stressful life events, and be more sensitive to seasonal changes.

Depression In Women Contrary to popular belief, clinical depression is not a “normal part of being a woman” nor is it a “female weakness.” Depressive illnesses are serious medical illnesses that affect more than 19 million American adults age 18 and over each year.

[1]. Race and gender may play a role, age and health may play a role as well as many Treatment Options · Weight Loss · Proven Methods · Assisted Living.