Depression in females is on the Increase

Female depression has been found to far exceed that among males. The real reason may have to do with the various roles women are forced to play in society, and the stresses and strains and abuses they are exposed to. Female conditions has been found to have certain distinct differences from that affecting the males.

Women tend to give vent to their depressions through such things as self-blame, overeating, and taking care of others. This condition is characterized by moodiness, anxiety, fright, low self confidence, nervousness, withdrawal, fear of success etc. As to why more women fall victim more to the illness remains a mystery.

Studies have shown that it is rampant across a wide variety of cultures, regardless of their status. A study on relation between depression and reproductive functions points to the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone as the main culprits. In addition to classical conditions, women are also subject to specific types related to their ability to bear children, such as post-partum and conditions brought on by PMS.

The diagnostic criteria for symptoms are the same for both sexes. Women may achieve higher plasma concentrations of antidepressants and thus may require lower dosages of these medications. But as in the case with other forms of the condition a combination therapy is often more effective. SSRIs are effective in treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder and many comorbid conditions associated with the illness in women.

Psychotherapy may be used alone in women with mild to moderate cases. Hospitalization becomes necessary for those affected with severe conditions, psychosis, substance abuse, severe hopelessness, suicidal tendencies or limited social support. Typically, such patients require management by a psychiatrist.

In addition to confirming the diagnosis of female depression, its relationship to menstruation, pregnancy, the perinatal period or the perimenopausal period should be taken into account. All possible links for depression that can be treated should be analyzed first. Further treatments should be advised only if the patient fails to respond to this.

Psychosocial therapies can address issues that particularly affect women, such as competing roles and conflicts. Commonly used treatments include psychotherapy to correct communicative, behavioral, negative thinking, and reduce family conflicts. In patients with mild to moderate symptoms, psychosocial therapies may be used alone, or with antidepressant drugs together for a period of time.