Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in things one once enjoyed. As per the best psychiatrists in Bhopal, depression is more common in women than in men, though it's unclear how many more women are diagnosed with depression when compared to men. What leads to this discrepancy is unclear, but theories suggest that hormones may contribute to this gender difference.

In a study published in March 2014, researchers from Uppsala University in Sweden studied how hormones might affect women's brain function. Specifically, they looked at the different hormone levels during pregnancy, and found that women who were pregnant or who gave birth had lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that suppresses stress and prepares you for a fight-or-flight response. Another factor that increases the risk of depression for women is the society's stereotype that women are not as capable as men. Other reasons why women are more likely to experience depression include their higher rate of unemployment, female-to-male violence, and more frequent sexual assault.

How Women with Depression Are Treated

Different treatments for depression may be more effective for women. Researchers from the University of Missouri and McGill University in Montreal conducted a systematic review of literature on gender differences in the treatments of depression. They found that women responded better to interpersonal psychotherapy than men did. However, there were no differences in the effectiveness of antidepressant medications.

How to Avoid Depression?

The statistics vary, but one study claims that 30% of women in the United States will experience at least one major depressive episode in their lifetime. When experiencing symptoms such as persistent sadness, trouble sleeping, and weight changes, it's best to seek medical help from a psychiatrist in Bhopal. It's also important to be aware of the potential triggers for depression, such as financial hardship, physical illness, and grief. If left untreated, these factors can lead to the onset of depression. The sooner you seek help, the more effective it will be. If you're suffering from depression, there are many different treatment options available.