Know the Signs
It’s Not Always What You Think:
Depression in Women
Depression is a medical condition that you cannot just snap out of. It can affect how you feel, think, sleep, eat or work. Depression is more common in women, possibly from varying hormonal, biological, and social factors that are unique to women. Depression can also hurt…literally. A person with depression can experience many physical symptoms such as aches, pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems to name a few.
The following is a list of signs and symptoms of depression as given by the National Institute of Mental Health. If you have been experiencing any of these for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression and it is recommended to talk to your doctor about your symptoms.
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty mood”
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Irritability
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Decreased energy of fatigue
Difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, or oversleeping
Loss of interest and pleasure in hobbies and activities
Moving or talking more slowly
Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Appetite and/or weight change
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment.
Not every woman will experience every symptom. The severity and frequency of how long the symptoms last also vary. Let your doctor diagnose and make a treatment plan for you. It would also be recommended to seek out therapy of which your doctor can be a helpful referral source.
~Cynthia Morris
