Most women develop depression at some point of their life. Women are twice as likely to develop the disorder more than men. Although depression can happen at any time in a woman’s life, it is more likely to occur between the ages of 40 and 59.

Normal hormonal changes are responsible for some level of depression in those who suffer from it, but these normal fluctuations are not the only reason for increased levels of the disorder in women.

This page outlines four factors why women are more liable to suffer depression more than men.

Brain Chemistry and Hormones

People who suffer from depression have different brain chemistry than those who do not. A woman’s brain chemistry is also impacted by regular hormonal fluctuations, especially during certain times in her life, like after childbirth or during menopause. The hormonal fluctuations can be so severe during these times that medication is sometimes necessary to normalize brain chemistry and protect against severe depression.

Puberty

When a girl begins puberty, hormonal changes and changes in her body often bring on depression. Body image, peer pressure and a young girl’s general sense of self-esteem can also play a role in whether or not she will develop depression during this time of great change. A teen girl’s general attitude about puberty and the journey to womanhood can also affect how she feels about herself, and these changes can increase or decrease her risk of depression. As this is a time of great change and depression can often take place.

Stress

When a woman’s stress level is high, her risk of depression is also increased. Although stress is common enough in society, women are particularly susceptible to its effects due in part to the other factors previously mentioned. When stress comes from so many demands on a woman’s time from so many places, it can result in extreme fatigue, which makes it easier to slip into depression. Increases in stress over long periods of time can dramatically increase a woman’s risk of depression, including severe (clinical) depression that requires medication, therapy and sometimes hospitalization.

Menstrual Problems

Along with puberty, pregnancy and menopause, many women suffer from menstrual problems. Menstrual issues can begin with puberty and continue throughout a woman’s life until menopause. Heavy bleeding with each period, fibroid tumors, endometriosis and missing periods can cause extreme fatigue, mood swings and a general sense of despair that leads to depression. With the right medical intervention, women with menstrual issues can lead normal, healthy lives. But getting the right diagnosis and treatment can take time, increasing the risk of a woman developing depression.

Symptoms of Depression in Women

Depression can be severe and debilitating for women, but, with the right treatment, women who suffer from it can find relief and hope. If you or a loved one suffers from chronic feelings of sadness and you think it is as a result of depression, then you should look out for this symptoms.

Ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness and guilt

Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed

Significant changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or sleeping too much

Fatigue or other physical symptoms, like pain, with no apparent cause

Changes in appetite that lead to significant weight gain or loss

Feeling as though life is not worth living or having thoughts of suicide

Depression is a mental illness that can cause extreme feelings of sadness and even thoughts of suicide. Getting appropriate treatment for depression can help you lead a normal and happy life.