Understanding and Treating Hormonal Depression in Women

According to the Mayo Clinic, depression is more common in women than men. Hormonal imbalances in one factor that may increase the likelihood that a women will suffer from depression.

Hormonal Changes

• Women experience hormonal changes throughout their lifetimes. Hormones are affected by puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and by the onset of menopause.

Female Hormones

• The two female hormones that have the most effect on a woman's mood are estrogen and progesterone. When these hormones become imbalanced, they may affect serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates mood.

Types of Depression

• Types of depression that my affect women are major depression, premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and postpartum depression.

Depression Symptoms

• Symptoms of depression may include hopelessness, overwhelming sadness, crying, difficulty focusing, trouble making decisions, irritability, restlessness, fatigue, feeling of worthlessness, disinterest in sex, unexplained body pain and suicidal thoughts.

Treatment

• Common treatments for depression include therapy and antidepressant medications. Medications and dosages may have to be adjusted several times.