Depression doesn’t discriminate by gender. Both men and women can end up suffering from this condition. However, depression can be more prevalent among women due to some unique risk factors. Lots of women who struggle with depression feel alone and isolated. They might feel like no one around them really understands what they’re going through.
But the truth is that many women suffer from symptoms of depression. Understanding the risk factors can help you recognize symptoms early, get help when you need it most, and let go of the shame and guilt that can often accompany depression. Here are a few common depression risk factors for women.
Family History of Depression
If you have a family history of depression, you are at a higher risk of developing this condition yourself. Depression is heritable. This does not mean that you will definitely experience it, but it does mean that genetics and family history have a strong influence on your individual risk level. If you already know that depression runs in your family, it’s important to learn how to spot the symptoms so that you can seek help if necessary.
Hormonal Problems or Shifts
Women go through various hormonal shifts in their lives. Puberty brings dramatic physical changes, as does pregnancy. Women become especially susceptible to depression when they are postpartum. Later in life, women enter perimenopause, and then menopause, which represents a dramatic change in their hormone levels.
Going through any kind of major change that affects your hormones can drastically affect your mental health.
Poverty and Unstable Employment
On average, women make less money than men. Furthermore, most single parents are women, which means they have to carry a serious financial burden. Women who stay home with their children for a period of time are doing a very important job, but unfortunately, taking time out of the workforce can diminish their earning potential and affect their lifelong earnings.
Poverty and unstable employment are risk factors for depression, and women who struggle financially also often struggle with their mental health.
History of Trauma, Assault, or Mental Health Struggles
Women who have suffered through trauma may hesitate to reach out for help. But trying to ignore trauma and brush it under the rug can make your symptoms worse later in life, and you might end up dealing with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder as a result. If you have ever survived assault, abuse, or dealt with another mental health condition, you could also be more vulnerable to depression.
Relationship Problems
Being in an unhappy relationship can leave you susceptible to depression. You might feel like you’re responsible for all of the emotional labor or that your partner simply isn’t pulling their own weight. If you’re raising children with your partner, you may feel like childcare and household responsibilities are pushing you to your limit. Furthermore, if you’ve ever suffered from emotional, physical, or financial abuse within your relationship, it has likely taken a toll on your mental health.
Lifestyle Factors
Finally, it’s important to note that lifestyle factors can also have a strong impact on your mental health. It can be tough to keep up with healthy routines if you’re working full time, raising children, or both. The responsibilities of adult life can feel overwhelming and unrelenting. A lack of physical activity or sleep, a poor diet, or a stressful job can all negatively effect your mental health. These factors can all contribute to your likelihood of developing depression.
———— Are you suffering from symptoms of depression? Talking to a therapist can help. Reach out to us to discuss your options for scheduling your first session.