Blogs - Symptoms of Depression in Women: Common Signs and How to Recognize Them

Depression Symptoms in Women: Common Signs and How to Recognize Them

Depression is one of the most widespread disorders in modern times, causing deep feelings of sadness that deprive the individual of the desire to engage in their daily activities. While anyone can experience depression, the signs are more prominent in women. Women are more susceptible to this disorder compared to men, with the World Health Organization indicating that women suffer from depression at a rate approximately 50% higher than men. Additionally, more than 10% of new mothers and pregnant women experience depression, affecting their emotional and mental well-being.

The higher prevalence of depression in women compared to men is attributed to various factors that differ from one woman to another. Each case is unique and may be influenced by hormonal, biological, or social reasons. For example, some conditions occur during pregnancy and after childbirth, or the multiple stresses women face in their daily lives, among other causes that require assessment and treatment of depression signs in women.

In fact, many women suffering from depression do not receive the necessary healthcare for reasons including a lack of resources, a shortage of specialists, or even fear of social stigma. However, it can be easier for them to access help when health practitioners and licensed experts are available, ensuring safety, privacy, and individualized care for each case, which is exactly what the Estenarh platform provides.

Discover more about depression signs in women and its treatment with the Estenarh app – download it now.

Depression Signs in Women: Causes and Symptoms

Causes of Depression in Women

Here are some experiences that increase the risk of women developing depression:

• Hormonal Changes: Directly impact brain chemistry and increase depression risk.
• Genetic Factors: Family history raises the likelihood of developing depression.
• Stress and Psychological Pressure: Women have a stronger hormonal response to stress, increasing their vulnerability.
• Emotional Thinking: Overanalyzing situations can prolong negative feelings.
• Physical Changes: Self-confidence may be affected during adolescence, postpartum, or menopause.
• Social Pressures: Societal expectations and gender roles contribute to stress and mental strain.
• Exposure to Abuse: Violence or emotional trauma can leave lasting mental scars.

Symptoms of Depression in Women

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or guilt without a clear reason.Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.Sleep disturbances—insomnia or oversleeping without rest.Chronic fatigue or unexplained physical pain.Difficulty concentrating, confusion, or poor memory.Appetite changes leading to weight loss or gain.Dark thoughts about life’s worth or self-harm.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek professional support and help to improve your mental health and regain balance in your life.

Related Articles: How to Overcome Depression Quickly

Types of Depression in Women

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of depression in women may experience throughout various life stages. A woman’s mental health often shifts depending on her age and the unique psychological and physical changes that come with each stage—each potentially triggering specific symptoms of depression.

Puberty Depression in Girls

During puberty, girls experience hormonal changes that can increase the likelihood of developing depression. While mood swings during this time are generally considered normal, the overlap of puberty with other life challenges may contribute to the onset of depressive symptoms.

Some common factors that may increase the risk of depression during puberty include:

• Struggles with personal identity and sexuality
• Increased conflicts with parents due to differing perspectives
• Rising academic, athletic, or social pressure to succeed

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), typically occurring in the weeks leading up to menstruation. It causes intense symptoms that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life.

Some common symptoms of PMDD include:

• Sudden outbursts of anger
• Suicidal thoughts
• Appetite disturbances
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Joint or muscle pain

Depression During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, some women may experience symptoms of depression, such as deep sadness and constant anxiety. These feelings are often accompanied by overwhelming fatigue, making it difficult to manage everyday tasks—including self-care or preparing for the baby’s arrival.

Postpartum Depression (Baby Blues)

It’s normal for new mothers to feel sadness or anxiety a few days after giving birth. However, some women may show clearer signs of depression during this sensitive period. These can include sudden crying spells, trouble sleeping, or self-doubt about their ability to care for the newborn. This condition can be triggered by various factors, such as a sharp drop in progesterone levels, physical exhaustion, breastfeeding challenges, and other postpartum health complications.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a more severe form of the ''baby blues'' typically emerging between two to eight weeks after childbirth. However, it can last up to a year. It affects approximately 10-15% of women.

Some of the key causes behind the signs of postpartum depression in women include:

• Sudden hormonal changes that directly impact mood stability.
• The pressure of caring for a newborn, often accompanied by sleep deprivation and constant fatigue.
• A genetic or psychological predisposition to mood or anxiety disorders, which can increase the likelihood of depression.
• Health challenges during pregnancy or childbirth, which may leave lasting emotional effects.
• Difficulties with breastfeeding, which can lead to added stress and feelings of inadequacy.
• Health issues or special needs in the baby, placing an extra emotional burden on the mother.
• Lack of emotional and social support, as the absence of help from family or a partner can deepen negative feelings.

Perimenopausal Depression

Some women experience psychological disturbances during the transition to menopause, as hormonal changes can lead to significant mood fluctuations. While common symptoms during this phase include irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty sleeping, hot flashes, and emotional changes, more intense feelings such as deep distress, persistent tension, profound sadness, or a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities may be signs of depression in women during the perimenopausal stage.

Signs of Depression in Women: The Journey to Recovery

Signs of Depression in women often result from a complex interplay of factors, requiring a holistic treatment approach that includes psychological support, medical interventions, and a positive social environment that fosters mental well-being.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution—finding the right treatment may take time and experimentation. Healthcare professionals can help you explore available options and guide you toward the most suitable path based on your condition and symptoms. With the right support, recovery is possible.

If you seek help, you can connect with a team of experienced healthcare practitioners through our digital platform. The Estenarh app allows you to easily book your sessions with full confidentiality and top-tier data protection standards.