Causes And Symptoms Of Depression In Women
Life is a wonderful gift given by the Mother Nature which consists of highs and lows, ups and downs. But when the lows and downs tend to last for a long time then it results in a very serious psychological problem called depression.
Depression is visible more in women than in men. The exact reason behind this is not known but the hormonal fluctuations are regarded as the prime reason behind this. The causes and symptoms of depression in women are many. Let us see them one by one.
Reproductive hormones, social pressures, family responsibility, stress are considered as the prime factors causing depression but the need is to lessen the risk of depression by studying these factors. This will help you in treating it effectively.
Depression reduces your morale, self respect, self-confidence and affects social as well as personal life and career. If you start feeling sad, guilty, tired and just want to live alone then you should understand that you are on the verge of depression. But do not get scared as depression is easily treatable and if you are determined you can come out of depression.
The various causes behind depression in women are classified as biological causes, social and cultural causes and psychological causes. Biological causes include pregnancy, infertility, premenstrual syndrome, baby blues, pre-menopause and menopause.
On the other hand, social and cultural causes include role strain i.e. confused between which role (mother, wife, working woman) to play, unequal power and status than men, sexual and physical abuse, poverty and relationship dissatisfaction. Psychological causes consist of puberty and body image, stress response and coping mechanisms.
Other causes include family history of depression, death of near and dear ones, divorce, early childhood trauma or abuse, alcohol or drug abuse, health problems etc.
It should be kept in mind that depression varies from person to person and the signs and symptoms also vary. The common signs and symptoms of depression are as given below.
The first symptom is feeling very lonely, feelings of helplessness, worthlessness and hopelessness. Loss of interest in daily activities like hobbies, social activities, chatting with friends and even sex is also seen as one of the symptoms of depression. Other symptoms include appetite or weight changes, sleep changes, irritation, frustration, restlessness, loss of energy or weakness, always feeling like crying, trouble in concentration, increased aches and pains, feelings of suicide etc.
