Depression in Women: Biological and Risk Factor

Depression is a common disabling disorder affecting More than 19 million Americans per year and women are at least twice as likely as men to experience a major depressive episode within a lifetime. Depression may occur at any stage during a woman's life and it occurs across educational, economical and racial groups. Significant personal cost are associated with depression, Including loss of life by suicide, Increased morbidity from medical illness, and attended risk of poor self care and reduced adherence to medical regimens.

Major depression, even without concurrent medical illness, impairs social and physical functioning, in some cases more severely than serious medical condition such as hypertension, diabetes and arthritis.

Biological factor

• Genetics
• Sex Harmon
• Psychological and social factor
• Life stress and trauma
• Interpersonal relationship and cognitive styles

Women at Greater Risk for Depression than Men

Major depression and dysthymia affect twice as many women as men. This two-to-one ratio exists regardless of racial and ethnic background or economic status. The same ratio has been reported in eleven other countries all over the world. Men and women have about the same rate of bipolar disorder (manic depression), though its course in women typically has more depressive and fewer manic episodes. Also, a greater number of women have the rapid cycling form of bipolar disorder, which may be more resistant to standard treatments.

Many factors unique to women are suspected to play a role in developing depression. Research is focused on understanding these factors, including: reproductive, hormonal, genetic or other biological factors; abuse and oppression; interpersonal factors; and certain psychological and personality characteristics. But, the specific causes of depression in women remain unclear. Many women exposed to these stress factors do not develop depression. Remember, depression is a treatable psychological problem, and treatment is effective for most women.

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