This Week's Top Stories About Signs And Symptoms Of Depression In Females
Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Females Women are about twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression than men. There are many factors that can increase your risk of being diagnosed, including a history of addiction or abuse, physical illness and genetics. Women are more vulnerable to depression because of hormonal changes, which includes premenstrual disorder (PMDD). Understanding the signs and symptoms of depression in females can help you identify when someone you love needs professional assistance. 1. It is difficult to concentrate Women are more likely to experience pronounced symptoms of depression such as sadness, a lack of interest in activities that are typically enjoyable and feelings of worthlessness. They tend to replay negative thoughts during bouts of depression, which could make the symptoms persist for longer and impact their mood. Though reliving thoughts is a normal response to depression, it has been shown that engaging in other activities, such as exercising or talking with family and friends or simply walking around can lessen the duration of the symptoms and make you feel better. Life stressors and societal pressures can contribute to depression in women. The pressure to manage work and home life, anxiety about the financial stability of a family, stigma of mental illness, and expectations of social standards for beauty can trigger depression and feelings of inadequateness. Social support and understanding of the complexities of depression in women can help in the early diagnosis and treatment. If you're a woman who is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to visit your GP as soon as you can. Depression is not a sign of weakness. It can be successfully treated through medication, talk therapy in person or online and lifestyle modifications. Even if the symptoms appear severe, most people can recover with the right help. 2. Feeling unworthy or guilt Women are more likely to feel feelings of guilt or feeling unworthy as part of depression. This is due to many factors, including a negative beliefs, triggers from situations and the rumination. Sadness is a normal emotion. However, if sadness becomes an constant and overwhelming presence that interferes in relationships and daily activities, it may be a sign that there is something wrong. These emotions are also more prevalent in women due to the unique stressors and challenges they have to face, like caring for others (children, spouse, parents) and balancing household and work obligations. They are also more likely to be affected by hormonal changes that are triggered by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and age. Anhedonia, also known as feelings of inadequacy or guilt, is ascribed to a reduced level of positive emotions and a decrease in enjoyment of the activities. However, the studies on this subject are sporadic, and it is unclear whether these symptoms are distinct from a depressed mood or are just a part of its impact. If you know a woman who is experiencing these symptoms it is essential to gently remind them that they aren't their fault and assistance is available. You can support her treatment by assisting with appointments and encouraging research. This will help ensure she receives the treatment she needs to heal. It is beneficial to be aware about the signs of depression and the treatments that work. clinical depression symptoms and cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on changing negative behaviors and thoughts, as well as relationship issues that can contribute to depression in women are highly effective. 3. Feeling restless, slowing down or slowed Depression in women is characterized by feelings of despair and worthlessness as well as a lack of motivation. Most women suffering from depression will feel like their lives aren't significant or worthwhile and may even become suicidal. They may also experience difficulty sleeping and eating as well as a negative change in their perception of self. Women with depression may feel shame and guilt if they think their symptoms affect the people they care about. Women who are depressed may withdraw from social activities that they once enjoyed. They may also experience anhedonia or lose interest in activities they used to love. These kinds of behavioral changes are a sign of a depressive episode and should be treated with the same vigor as other symptoms of depression. Certain kinds of depression are more frequently experienced by women than men, due to hormonal fluctuations and different reactions to stress and social expectations. Perinatal Depression, for example, is a type of depression that may manifest immediately after or shortly after childbirth. It is more severe than the “baby-blues” that new mothers suffer from. Perimenopausal Depression is a different type of depression that affects certain women as they transition into menopause. Depression is a common condition, so it is crucial for women to be aware of symptoms and signs so that they can seek help. A therapist can aid women in understanding the various types of depression and decide the type of therapy that is best for them. This could include cognitive behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy or a combination. In addition support networks can play an important role in promoting mental health awareness and offering support to people who are struggling. 4. Losing interest in certain things Everyone experiences periods of boredom or disinterest however, when these feelings continue to linger and interfere with a woman's daily life, they may be an indication that depression is the primary cause. If she's losing interest in anything and everything it is crucial to talk to her doctor. Women are more vulnerable to hormonal and emotional factors which can cause depression. The hormonal fluctuations that happen during a woman's cycle may cause the familiar emotions associated with the premenstrual (PMS). In some cases, PMS can become so severe it warrants a premenstrual dysphoric disorder diagnosis. This is treated in the same way as any other type of depression. In addition, women are more likely to dwell and think about negative emotions, which may prolong the duration of their depression-related episodes. Apathy is a typical manifestation of depression. It is characterized by the loss of pleasure in previous activities. Women are more likely to experience depression during menopausal and perimenopausal cycles due to the rapid fluctuations in hormones that regulate reproduction. Other causes of depression in women include relationship or marital issues, the pressure of balancing work and family obligations, financial difficulties, chronic illness or disabilities and the loss of a loved-one; and discrimination in the workplace. Whatever the reason, if someone is experiencing a persistent and severe lack of interest in her life, it's time to call her doctor or mental health expert. The sooner she seeks help, the faster her mood will improve and she'll be able return to the things she used to enjoy. 5. Losing weight Women are twice as likely to be suffering from depression as men, and for various reasons. For instance, it's been suggested that females are more likely to dwell during their down periods which can prolong and exacerbate the duration of their depression. Women are also more emotional, which can lead them to cry or talk to their friends about their depression and rehash negative thoughts -and both of these can make it difficult for them to find their way back “up.” Some women experience a brief dip in their mood during menstrual cycles due to the effect of fluctuating hormones, referred to as premenstrual syndrome or PMS. If this condition continues for more than 2 weeks, it could be a sign of depression. Other common symptoms of depression in women include mood swings, feeling depressed and a lack of enthusiasm in the activities they used to enjoy as well as physical pains and aches. Depression can also be caused by events like birth and pregnancy relationships, stress and difficult jobs. In some instances it's caused by an imbalance of the chemical system in the brain that can be addressed by taking antidepressants and psychotherapy. If you're worried about a loved one or family member, encourage them to seek help from their doctor or mental health professional. Don't hesitate to contact triple zero if they're in risk of harm. Visit Beyond Blue or Lifeline to learn more about depression as well as how to get assistance.