Signs of depression in women

There is still so much we don’t yet know about depression. One of the most puzzling aspects is why women are more likely to experience depression than men. Researchers are still investigating the possibilities, but theories abound.

• Could it be due to biological differences?
• Are hormonal fluctuations responsible?
• What about the effects of societal expectations and discrimination?

It seems that a combination of these factors could explain why women are twice as likely to be depressed in their lifetime. There are also gender-specific experiences, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, that impact women’s mental health. When we discuss women and depression, we must consider the effects of these different conditions.

What Does Depression in Women Look Like?

Experiencing 5 or more of these symptoms for more than 2 weeks indicates a major depressive episode. While the diagnostic criteria are the same for all genders, these symptoms sometimes appear differently in women.

For example, women with a low mood or feelings of excessive guilt may appear sad or stressed. On the other hand, men with the same symptoms can seem angry or emotionally unpredictable.

Societal norms also have an effect. Often, necessary but unpaid labor, such as childrearing and housework, is delegated to women. This can make women feel overly responsible for these areas of their lives and feel guilty when depression prevents them from fulfilling their perceived responsibilities.

Feelings of worthlessness can also manifest as extreme self-criticism and poor body image.

Depression can also cause behavior changes that are not specific to women. If any of these behaviors last for more than two weeks, it’s important to get in touch with a mental health professional.

• Withdrawing from others, isolating yourself
• Staying up late, or having difficulty getting out of bed
• Uncontrollable crying
• Negative self-talk

Why is Depression More Common in Women?

Several studies have found that women and girls are more likely to develop depression. While biological differences between genders seem to play a role, they are not the only explanation. Here are a few of the most common theories:

Hormonal factors

The menstrual cycle causes hormones like estrogen and progesterone to go up and down. For some women, these fluctuations can trigger a depressive episode.

In around 5% of women, menstruation cycles set off a condition known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which causes depression, mood swings, and pain.

Pregnancy also causes significant hormonal changes. Right after giving birth, hormone levels drop. This increases the risk of postpartum depression. However, since postpartum depression can affect either parent, hormonal changes are not the only cause.

Societal factors

Societal expectations can stifle individuality, which can lead to depression. Unfortunately, in most societies, women are a marginalized group. As such, they may face resistance when trying to pursue a non-traditional path.

Traditional gender expectations can limit women’s economic potential and encroach on their autonomy. In many countries, laws prevent women from making decisions about their healthcare and lifestyles.

Living under oppressive conditions may explain why women have higher rates of depression.

Cultural factors

Gender roles and expectations can also have a negative effect on men and may explain why women are overrepresented in depression statistics.

Since many cultures view women as more emotional, it is easier for women to express their feelings. This may be why women exhibit textbook depression symptoms such as sadness and are more likely to receive an accurate diagnosis.

Men, on the other hand, tend to mask their symptoms. They may overwork or turn to unhealthy coping skills like drinking. For this reason, depression in men is much less obvious.

There is also less stigma against women for discussing their mental and emotional health. As a result, women are more comfortable seeking professional help for their symptoms.

What Women Should Know About Treating Depression

Depression treatment protocols are the same for men and women – a combination of antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

However, antidepressant medications can be complicated for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive. In these cases, a psychiatrist will have to weigh the benefits of treatment against the potential negative effects on the fetus.

Antidepressants can disrupt hormonal balances and negatively affect the digestive system. As women are more likely to have irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease, they may need a different treatment protocol.

Replacing antidepressants with less invasive treatments such as tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation) can eliminate many of these side effects. tDCS is a therapeutic technique that uses a mild electric current to stimulate brain regions that become underactive from depression.

In contrast to antidepressants, tDCS has minimal side effects – that means no sweating, weight gain, or sleeping problems that can exacerbate other conditions like PMDD or menopause.

Three high-quality studies investigating pregnancy and tDCS use (Kurzeck et al, Vigod et al, Laurin et al) have found no adverse effects. Larger studies are needed, but there is no evidence that tDCS during pregnancy is harmful. However, women should always be cautious when treating depression during pregnancy and talk to their doctor before starting any new treatment.

Flow Offers an Alternative Way to Treat Depression at Home

tDCS is usually performed in the clinical setting. However, the Flow headset, an officially-approved medical device, allows women to undergo tDCS treatment at home. The Flow headset doesn’t interfere with hormone production or digestive processes. And the treatment protocol does not need to be lowered or changed during conception or pregnancy.

The Flow headset can be ordered online without a prescription or doctor's appointment, saving time and energy. This is perfect for women juggling multiple obligations, like family, work, and other responsibilities. If you are a woman interested in a new depression treatment option, talk to your doctor about tDCS.