“Ask Me Anything,” 10 Responses To Your Questions About Signs And Symptoms Of Depression In Females

Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Females Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression. There are a variety of factors that can increase the risk, such as a history or addiction, physical illness, and genetics. Women are more prone to depression because of hormonal changes, which includes premenstrual disorder (PMDD). Understanding the symptoms and signs of depression in females could aid in determining if your loved ones require professional help. 1. It is difficult to concentrate Women tend to exhibit more pronounced symptoms of depression such as sadness, lack of interest in activities that are typically enjoyable and feelings of utter lack of value. They tend to replay negative thoughts during periods of depression. This could make the symptoms last longer and affect their mood. Reliving negative thoughts is a common response to depression, other activities such as exercising, talking to friends and family or simply strolling around can help to reduce the duration of symptoms and help you feel better. Social pressures and stressors can contribute to depression in women. The pressure to find a balance between work and family, worries about the financial stability of a family, stigma associated with mental illnesses and expectations of the beauty standards of society can cause depression and feelings of inadequateness. Social support and understanding of the complexities of depression in women can aid in the early diagnosis and treatment. If you are a woman experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is essential to visit your GP as soon as you can. Depression is not a weakness. It can be successfully treated by medication, therapy in person or via online and lifestyle changes. Even if symptoms are serious however, most people can improve with right support. 2. Feeling unworthy and feeling guilty Women are more likely than men to experience feelings of worthlessness or guilt as a result of depression. This is due to various factors, such as negative beliefs, triggers from situations and thoughts of rumination. Feeling sad is a normal reaction. However, if sadness becomes an constant and overwhelming feeling that causes problems in relationships and daily activities, it may be a sign that there is something wrong. Women are more likely to feel these emotions due to the unique challenges and stressors they face. This includes caring for others, including children, spouses, and parents, and balancing home and work responsibilities. Women are more vulnerable to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, menstruation and aging. Feelings of guilt and feeling worthless are also linked to the inability to enjoy activities and reduced positive emotions, also known as anhedonia. However, the research on this subject are sporadic, and it is unclear whether these signs are separate from a depressed mood or are just a part of the impact. If you know someone who is suffering from these symptoms it's important to gently remind her that these symptoms aren't her fault and that help is readily available. You can support her treatment by helping with appointments and encouraging the research. This will ensure that she receives the help she needs to heal. It is beneficial to be aware about the signs of depression and the treatments that work. Cognitive-behavioral therapy concentrates on changing negative thoughts and behaviors and interpersonal therapy that addresses issues with relationships which can contribute to depression in women, are both highly effective. 3. Feeling tired or sluggish Unmotivated and sluggish are common signs of depression in females as are feelings of despair and lack of value. People suffering from depression might feel that their lives aren't important or meaningful, and might even consider suicide. They may also experience difficulty eating or sleeping, and a negative change in their self-esteem. Women with depression are more likely to develop feelings of guilt and shame, especially if they believe their symptoms are impacting those they love. Women who are struggling with depression are often unable to participate in social activities that they used to enjoy and may also feel anhedonic or lose interest in activities they used to find enjoyable. These changes in behavior are significant indicators of depression and should be treated with the same care as other symptoms. Certain types of depression are more frequently experienced by women than men due to hormonal fluctuations and different responses to stress and social expectations. Perinatal Depression, for example, is a type of depression that can occur immediately after or shortly after childbirth. It is more severe than “baby-blues” that new mothers experience. Perimenopausal depression is another form of depression that affects some women as they transition into menopause. Depression is a fairly frequent condition, so it's important for women to be aware of symptoms and signs so they can seek help. A therapist can help women recognize the various types of depression, and determine which type of therapy is most effective for them. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy as well as interpersonal therapy or a combination of. Support networks can play a vital role in educating people about mental health and helping those struggling. 4. The loss of interest in the world Every woman experiences moments of boredom or lack of interest. However, when these feelings continue to linger, and they disrupt her daily life it could be a sign that depression is the cause. If depression symptoms men Iam Psychiatry -related symptoms are leading her to lose interest in anything and everything, it's important that she talk to her health care provider. Women are more susceptible to emotional and hormone factors that can lead depression. Particularly, the hormonal fluctuations that take place during a woman's menstrual cycle can cause the familiar feelings of sadness and irritability that are associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In some cases, PMS can become so severe that it warrants a dysphoric disorders diagnosis, which can be treated like any other type of depression. Furthermore women are more prone to dwell and think about negative emotions, which may prolong the duration of depressive episodes. A common symptom of depression is a loss of enjoyment in activities that were previously enjoyable and is referred to as apathy and is one of the primary symptoms of depression. Additionally, women are at greater risk for depression during perimenopause and menopausal cycles due to the rapid changes of reproductive hormones. Other causes of depression among women are marital or relationship issues, the pressure of balancing work and family obligations, financial problems and chronic illness or disabilities or the loss of a loved one; as well as workplace discrimination. It does not matter what the root cause is, if you observe that a woman is experiencing an ongoing and severe lack of interest in her life it could be the right the right time to talk to a mental health professional or a doctor. The sooner she seeks out assistance, the quicker her mood will improve. She can then reclaim her passion and be able to enjoy life again. 5. Losing weight Women are twice as prone to depression than men. This is due to a variety of reasons. Women are more likely than men to be ruminating when they're feeling depressed, which can delay their mood and make it worse. Women are more emotional than men, which can lead them to rehash negative emotions or talk to friends about their depression. Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is a temporary decrease in mood that happens during menstrual periods because of fluctuating hormonal levels. However, if the condition lasts for more than 2 weeks it could be a sign of depression. Other signs of depression include mood swings and feeling defeated as well as a lack in pleasure in activities that they previously enjoyed. Depression can also be triggered by events such as pregnancy and birth, relationship difficulties and stressful jobs. In some cases it's due to an imbalance in the brain, which can be treated by taking antidepressants and psychotherapy. If you're concerned about a friend or family member, encourage them to seek assistance from their doctor or mental health professional. And don't hesitate to call triple zero if you think they're at risk of harm. Visit Beyond Blue or Lifeline to find out more about depression and how you can get assistance.