Why Women Are at an Increased Risk for Depression and How We Can Help

Around 25% of women are likely to experience major depression at least once in their life. And, though men can also have depression, it’s at about half the rate women do. Why do women have depression so much more often than men? The answer is complicated.

At A Woman’s Wellspring, Dr. Stephanie Taylor -MD. PhD provides services to help women who are struggling with depression or other mood disorders. A cornerstone of her practice is providing care in a way that isn’t rushed and allows her to develop a relationship with you so that you get the care you need, including supportive counseling. 

The impact of depression

Depression affects every part of your life, from your personal relationships to your physical health. The good news is that there are treatments that work, and you don’t have to just live with a lack of interest in anything.

If you’ve noticed that you often feel helpless and hopeless, it could be a sign that you’re depressed. You may feel like everything is terrible and nothing will get better and find that you don’t care.

Many of us have hobbies and social activities that we enjoy. When you’re depressed, you lose interest in those kinds of things.

You may also observe changes in your appetite, sleep patterns, and energy level. Those are often physical manifestations of depression. You may even notice that you have more aches and pains than you used to.

It’s difficult to meet your day-to-day obligations when you don’t care about them or have the energy for them. This can create problems at work, at home, and in your social life and put you at risk of developing a substance use or alcohol use disorder. 

Causes of depression

Depression is a complicated mental illness, and there’s no single cause. Some common causes include: 

• Genetics - people with a family history of depression have a higher risk
• Brain chemistry - research shows that changes in how your neurotransmitters work could play a role in depression
• Hormonal changes - this could be one reason women are more prone to depression
• Traumatic life events
• Certain illnesses 

Researchers are working to learn more about what happens when a person is depressed, but it appears to be an interplay of physical, chemical, and social factors.

Women and depression

Many theories exist about why women experience more depression than men, and it could be due to a variety of issues. For example, women may seek care for depression more than men—but that would only account for a small part of the reason.

One group of scientists studying depression in women note that “females are notably underrepresented in studies seeking to understand the mechanisms of depression.”  In other words, historically, women weren’t included in studies about depression.

A recent study found that women have a greater risk of developing depression during perimenopause than during their reproductive years or post-menopause. This could be due to hormonal fluctuations during that time, or perhaps it could be because it’s a time of transition and can be difficult. 

How we can help

Even though researchers don’t fully understand why women experience depression more often than men, doctors have tools to help you. Dr. Taylor-MD. PhD offers supportive counseling, primary care services, menopause care, and complementary medicine that may help. 

By getting to know you and understanding your medical history and current situation, Dr. Taylor -MD. PhD can offer a treatment plan to suit your lifestyle and address your issues effectively.

If you have symptoms of depression, schedule an appointment today.