Symptoms of Depression in Women

Women have emotional fluctuations as do men, however the difference lies in that these changes are more likely to be caused by hormonal fluctuations. The hormonal changes that occur during menstrual cycle, pregnancy and perimenopausal cycles can increase the risk of depression for women.

You can identify depression in a loved one by identifying the symptoms. Women are more likely to experience the following symptoms of postpartum depression:

1. Feelings of despair and sadness

People suffering from depression might be depressed or sad. Sometimes, these feelings are "normal" and go along with life's peaks and valleys. However, if they persist and severe it's an indication of depression and requires professional intervention.

Women who are pregnant or who have recently had a baby may suffer from the "baby blues." If the symptoms are severe and last for longer than a few weeks, you should see with a physician. This is a sign of postpartum depression, or a major depression that has peripartum-onset.

Perimenopausal Depression may occur when hormone levels fluctuate. Symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings and sleep problems. These symptoms are more severe than the usual ones associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and include breast tenderness, bloating, irritability and changes in appetite. Talk therapy, like virtual or in person counseling, antidepressant medication and brain stimulation techniques, such as ECT and TMS, can be used as treatments. Even the most severe cases of depression can be treated with the right treatment.

2. Loss of interest or Symptoms of Depression in Women enjoyment in things you used to enjoy

The loss of enthusiasm for activities that you usually enjoy could be a sign of depression. This could mean that you don't want to go out with friends or read as much or even losing interest in hobbies that you used to enjoy. If you notice this change it's essential to talk to a healthcare professional right away.

Depression can cause people to lose interest in things that they normally enjoy and make them think there is no point to pursue it anymore. These feelings can cause a lack of energy, which can then feed back into depression, causing the symptoms to become worse.

Depression can happen at any age, but it is more common for women than males. It is likely due to hormone, biological, and social factors that are specific to women. Women are also more likely to seek treatment for depression more often than men do. Men can also have the same symptoms of bipolar depression that women do, such as irritability and a lack of interest in their usual activities, but research suggests that they are less likely to recognize these clinical depression symptoms.

Anhedonia is the absence of enjoyment or pleasure. It is a common occurrence among people who suffer from depression and may be a sign of major depression or bipolar disorder. People with anhedonia typically struggle to identify things they enjoy or finding satisfaction in work, hobbies or relationships.

A lot of women experience anhedonia in periods of hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or following childbirth (perinatal depression) or before and after menstruation (premenstrual dysphoric disorder, PMDD). These kinds of depression can be treated through counseling or medication. Women also may be more susceptible to psychological signs of depression causes of depression, such as negative body image or stress. They might also be more prone to thinking about their negative feelings which can exacerbate depression. It is important to seek professional assistance or to distract yourself from depression.