A good mental health drives away depression

Depression in women tend to be more common than men. Up to 1 in 4 women are likely to have an episode of major depression at some point in life.

Some mood changes and depressed feelings occur with normal hormonal changes. But hormonal changes alone don’t cause depression. Other biological factors such as inherited traits and personal life circumstances and experiences are associated with a higher risk of depression. Here are some points as to what causes depression in women.

First off is Pregnancy. Although dramatic hormonal changes during pregnancy do affect mood, but the most factor that develop depression during pregnancy are extrinsic factors. Lifestyle or work changes or other life stressors, relationship problems, lack of social support, unintended pregnancy are the factors that could cause depression.

Have you ever come across new mothers that find themselves sad, angry and irritable? These are feelings called baby blues which is normal and generally subside with a week or two. But it might develop into a more-serious or long-lasting depressed feelings when signs and symptoms like crying  more often than usual, low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling numb, trouble sleeping, thoughts of suicide.

Hormone changes during puberty may increase some girls’ risk of developing depression. During puberty, there are other experiences that can play a role in depression, for example emerging sexuality and identity issues, conflict with parents, increasing pressure to achieve in school, sports or other areas of life.

During transition to menopause which is a stage called peri-menopause, hormone levels may fluctuate erratically. Depression risk may also rise during early menopause or after menopause. Factors like poor sleep, anxiety, stressful life events, weight gain or higher body mass index (BMI).