Why Women Are More Prone to Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition in the United States, affecting an estimated  21 million adults. While men are being diagnosed with depression, women are twice as likely to develop the disorder for many reasons.

At Jehovahs Behavioral Care, we offer comprehensive depression care. Grace Fomunung, PMHNP, and our team provide diagnostic screenings for depression and other mental health issues. We also customize a care plan to relieve your symptoms and ensure they don’t interfere with your quality of life.

Understanding depression

Depression is a mental illness that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. These symptoms last two weeks or longer and can negatively impact your ability to function and meet your responsibilities.

Those with depression may lose interest in activities they usually enjoy. Untreated depression can also lead to self-isolation and thoughts or actions of self-harm or suicide.

Fortunately, depression is a treatable condition, and your symptoms can be managed with medications, psychotherapy, and other supportive strategies.

The links between women and depression

There are several links between women and depression. A primary cause of depression and other mood changes in females is unbalanced hormones.

Women’s hormone levels fluctuate regularly — starting in puberty, during monthly menstrual cycles, and throughout pregnancy. As women age and transition into the end of their childbearing years (menopause), hormone fluctuations can become erratic and trigger various emotional, mental, and physical issues.

Hormonal birth control can also be a factor in hormone-related depression. Women who undergo a hysterectomy or cancer treatments at an early age and experience premature menopause may also be at increased risk for depression.

Other factors for depression in women

While hormones do play a large role in depression, other lifestyle and biological factors can increase a woman’s risk for lasting depression symptoms, including:

• Family responsibilities
• Financial concerns
• Work stress
• Family history
• Poor quality sleep
• Physical or sexual abuse

Along with depression, women may also be more likely to experience other mental health challenges like anxiety and eating disorders.

If life seems overwhelming and you feel a sadness you can’t overcome, our team at Jehovahs Behavioral Care can help. We offer a judgment-free, safe space to share your concerns and get the help you deserve.

Exploring your depression treatment options

An effective tool for managing the negative thoughts and low mood depression causes is psychological counseling.

We offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you recognize your thought patterns and behaviors to actively improve your mindset. You also learn tools to minimize stress, family conflicts, and other factors contributing to your depression symptoms.

If therapy isn’t enough, our medication management services help you find the best antidepressants to relieve lasting symptoms. We carefully monitor your progress with treatment during your therapy sessions and routine follow-up visits so you always have access to the support you need to feel better.

Call Jehovahs Behavioral Care in Lilburn, Georgia, to schedule a depression screening or book an appointment online today.