Women have many roles to play in life; employee, friend, wife, mother, caretaker. Throughout life, these roles have their ups, they also have their downs. A few of these changes may be the stress of life, arguing with a friend, or even hormones.
With that said, depression is actually twice as likely to affect women than it affects men. But what are the causes? Are there any symptoms to depression in women?
Symptoms of Depression in Women
Just as no two women are the same, neither are the symptoms of depression. Depression can take on many forms. From feeling down in the dumps, to not being able to get out of bed, knowing what to look for can aid in regaining control of your life.
Here Are Some Of The Most Common Symptoms Of Depression In Women:
- Loss of appetite.
- Feeling exhausted or weak for no reason.
- Constantly feeling overwhelmed.
- Inability to focus for long periods of time.
- Crying without cause.
- Dramatic mood swings.
If you feel more than one of these symptoms or you’re feeling suicidal, seek medical attention immediately.
Causes of Depression in Women
Nothing is without cause and depression is no different. Many times, it's difficult to even know why we feel depressed. We just feel unhappy and can't figure out why. However, there are several causes of depression. Here are some of the major causes of depression in women.
Death Of A Loved One
After experiencing the death of someone you loved, it can cause sadness or grief. Although feeling sad is natural, it increases the risk of depression
Abuse
Women who have experienced any physical, emotional, or sexual abuse may suffer from clinical depression as a result of the abuse. Regardless of when the abuse occurred, it still may cause depression for the victim. Even if a significant amount of time has passed and there have been no symptoms of depression, triggering events or memories may occur.
Family History and Hereditary Factors
Having a family history of depression can lead to an increased risk of depression.
This is why it is important to remember that depression is a medical condition, and is more complex than simply your emotional state. Just as your family medical history and hereditary factors play a role in your susceptibility to things like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes, the same is true for depression.
A Major Life Event
Women who are part of a big event like getting a new job, graduating from college and even getting married may experience depression as a result. Even if the major life event is a positive one, it may still be a triggering factor for depression, especially if it brings along large amounts or new sources of stress.
Treatments of Depression in Women
Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to treat depression in women. Every patient is different and no two are affected by depression the same way. However, with the help of a licensed professional to find the treatment that works best for each patient, even the most severe cases of depression can be treated.
Here are the types of treatment for depression offered by our team of licensed professionals here at MidValley Healthcare.
Medications
Depression can be debilitating. Medication therapy with antidepressants is a popular treatment choice for those with depression. Antidepressants may not cure depression, but they can reduce your symptoms. When paired with other types of therapy such as counseling, group therapy, or TMS therapy recovery from depression is possible.
Antidepressants relieve depression by affecting certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are all neurotransmitters associated with depression. The effects of each type (class) of antidepressants varies slightly. Therefore, it may take trying a few different ones before the correct one for you is determined.
Psychotherapies
Psychotherapy, also referred to as “talk therapy” or “counseling”, is the treatment of a mental disorder by psychological rather than medical means. At MidValley Healthcare we pair counseling with other types of therapy such as medication therapy, group therapy, or/and TMS therapy when treating depression. Adding psychotherapy to a patient’s treatment plan not only adds to their support network but it also gives patients the ability to problem solve in a safe, neutral, non-judgmental environment. In our counseling sessions patients develop skills such as Mindfulness and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
Psychoeducational therapies refer to the process of teaching people the skills needed to break the cycles of mental health or addiction. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) offer several different types of psychoeducational therapies such as Coping, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). You never have too much support in your journey to recovery.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This non-drug treatment is FDA approved for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective.
Here are some important things to know about TMS:
- TMS has no side effects.
- Uses precisely targeted magnetic pulses similar to those used in and MRI.
- Stimulates key areas of the brain that are underactive in patients with depression.
- TMS is not ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy).
- Over 1 million patients have been treated with TMS therapy.
- 1 out of 2 showed significant improvement.
- 1 out of 3 patients were symptom free.
- TMS is covered by most insurance.
- Is conducted locally in the doctor's office.
If you suspect that you or a loved one might need help with depression, our team of licensed professionals here at MidValley Healthcare are here to help. We work with clients on an individual basis to achieve a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to make an appointment.