Causes of Depression in Women

Clinical depression is a state of extreme sadness or hopelessness that reaches a point where it affects your every day activities and quality of life. Depression can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender or race. It has been found to affect women twice as much as it affects men. Depression can have serious physiological as well as psychological consequences. Types of depression Situational depression: Certain situations or an unpleasant experience can be so stressful that you may lapse into depression. Examples can be the death of someone you love, a divorce or the loss of a job. Chronic depression: Chronic depression has got to do more with the proper functioning of your brain. An imbalance in the various neurotransmitters (chemicals like serotonin that trigger good mood) can lead to this more serious form of depression. Sometimes, prolonged periods of situational depression can alter your brain functions resulting in chronic depression. Bipolar disorder: This is a kind of depressive disorder which involves emotions at two extremes or poles. In bipolar disorders, an individual may swing from high levels of excitement to high levels of depression. This condition is also known as manic disorder. Seasonal affective disorder: Also known as SAD, this is a form of depression related to changes in seasons and a lack of exposure to sunlight. Some of the symptoms of SAD are headaches, irritability and fatigue.
Symptoms of depression Here are some of the common symptoms that you may experience in case you are suffering from depression. If you have at least 5 of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor:
Lack interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy earlier. Feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness or emptiness. Feeling like you want to cry or crying for no reason. Feeling slowed down or restless. Have a change in appetite; eat too much or too little. Unexplained weight gain or loss. Have thoughts of death or suicide or attempt suicide. Feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt. Have problems concentrating or making decisions. Trouble falling asleep or to keep asleep or feeling like you want to sleep all the time. Gets fatigued. Gastrointestinal (digestive) and sexual problems. Feelings of hopelessness and negative thoughts. Headaches or aches in other parts of your body. Unexplained anxiety or fear.
What causes depression? There is no single knowncause for depression. The disorder often runs in families. It isbelieved that genetics, stress or physical illness, medication or even Postpartum Depression may trigger an imbalance in brain chemicalscalled neurotran smitters, resulting in depression
Some factors that can develop depression are: Genetics: It is widely believed that heredity or genetics is a cause for depression although not everyone with a family history of depression develops the disorder. Stress: Stressful life events, such as loss of a job, divorce or death of a spouse can lead to depression. Poor health: Individuals with chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, Diabetes or cancer can develop depression. Medication: Prolonged usage of certain medications, such as anti-hypertensive drugs, sleeping pills, etc. may cause symptoms of depression. Postpartum depression: It is common for mothers to feel a mild form of gloom that usually occurs a few days to weeks after giving birth characterized by feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety and irritability. In a milder form this condition is known as baby blues. But when this condition gets worse and becomes severe, it is called Postpartum Depression. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal factors may play a role in the development of depression. Thyroid disorders such as Hypothyroidism (under active thyroid) are also linked to depression. Substance abuse: Consumption of alcohol, smoking cigarettes or using drugs may actually contribute to depression and anxiety disorders. Character traits: Certain personality traits, such as having low self-esteem, excessive guilt, feelings of worthlessness, inability to handle the pressures of everyday living or having a negative outlook of life can make a person depressed.
TreatmentGetting help soon If you feel that are being sad for longer periods of time, consult your doctor. Your doctor can help diagnose depression and treat you. With timely treatment your depression will soon disappear and you will be your normal, happy self again.
Living with depression Do not stress yourself too much with everyday tasks. Do not take more than you can handle. Do not blame yourself for failures or have negative thoughts about life. Remember such thoughts arise because of the depressed state of your mind. Develop new areas of interest or a new hobby. Explore areas that can keep your mind occupied and interested. Do not take major decisions in your current condition. Leave that to close family members or trustworthy people. Alcohol or other kinds of intoxicants worsens depression and will delay your recovery. Avoid them. Exercise regularly. Even moderate exercises have a positive impact on overall health and can cheer you up. Follow you doctor’s advice and do not miss out on appointments or any of the treatment plans. Have medications on time, drink plenty of water and eat a balanced nutritious diet and get enough sleep. It will take a few months for you to recover. Do not lose heart. Remember that depression is treatable and curable. There are so many people out there just like you who have maintained a positive outlook and defeated depression—so will you.