Why Some Women Are Depressed

Hormones - Moods are, to a greater extent than men's influenced by hormonal changes. A high percentage of women who are fighting the daily battle known as depression report a fluctuation of symptoms that coincides with their menstrual cycle. Attuned from adolescence to the phenomenon of moods that change according to forces that seem outside of their control, women may be more prone to the feeling of being powerlessness. At the same time, women whose depression worsens during the premenstrual period have lower levels of serotonin than they do postmenstrual and lower levels than women without PMS. Serotonin is one of the neurotransmitter hormones responsible for brain communication and is thought to be one of the big three in depression cause and treatment; norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Other areas that that play a role in depression in women are cultural and social factors. A woman self esteem may be reliant on her marriage, her children, or social status. If for some reason she loses her rock of stability then depression may not be far behind. Additionally women who have been sexually or physically abused are likely to experience bouts of depression. Other depression triggers include: Loss of income or reduction in income Stress and anxiety Overload of daily responsibilities Childcare Career setbacks Pregnancy In summary, women have challenging roles. They must be able to juggle multiple tasks effectively while gently keeping their spouse moving in the right direction. Women are basically the foundation that holds most American household together, and the demands placed on them are tremendous. If you are a woman with depression there is help out there, the challenge is finding the right treatment for your particular situation.