Women and Depression
The Symptoms and Treatment

According to The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) women experience depression at twice as often as men. It is estimated that 20 percent of women will be clinically depressed at some time in their lives. This makes depression a very important issue for women's health.  Depression is a serious illness but is highly treatable.

Below is a list of the symptoms of depression, according the National Institute of Mental Health.  Contact your doctor if you are experiencing any of these. 

• Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex.
• Restlessness, irritability, or excessive crying.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, pessimism.
• Sleeping too much or too little, early-morning awakening or difficulty getting out of bed.
• Decreased appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain.
• Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down”.
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts (seek medical attention immediately  if you experience this one)
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain.

Depression is not a sign of weakness and is no cause for shame. Many, many people experience depression.  If you think you are depressed, putting yourself down or feeling guilty about it only makes the depression worse.  Hoping it will just "go away" is usually of little value, as well.  Proper treatment is the surest and most effective way to overcome depression. 

Depression is most commonly treated with counseling and medication.  If you recognize some of these symptoms in yourself, contact your doctor right away. Your doctor can diagnose, prescribe treatment and/or make the necessary referrals.  Some people are uneasy about medication.  Make sure you discuss any of your concerns about the treatment options with your doctor.

If you have recently had a baby and are experiencing symptoms of depression this is even more urgent.  Post partum depression can worsen quickly, but with proper treatment has a very good recovery rate.

The National Institute of Mental Health is an excellent resource.  To access and download their booklet about depression in women CLICK HERE.

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Here are some ways to improve your mood.

Regarding women's health, our mental health is just a important as our physical health, so every mom must take care of herself in all areas.  There is evidence that the following activities cause some (small) changes in your body that can actually improve your mood.  Please keep in mind that these activities will not treat or "cure" depression.  You must see a doctor for that.  Try these in addition to your prescribed treatment--or if you are not depressed, but just want to feel a little better.

• Take a walk outside.
• Get some sunshine.
• Exercise--even a few minutes is helpful.
• Spend time laughing.
• Talk to someone supportive.
• Hug someone you love.
• Think about things you are grateful for.
• Prayer.
• Meditation.

          


One Minute Breather

Try this at the beginning of each day or anytime you want to improve your mood.

Sit comfortably and close you  eyes.  Breathe naturally (no deep breaths needed).  Count 10 breaths, trying to keep your attention focused on your breathing.  Then think about what matters most to you in life.  Focus on that for another 10 breaths.  Open your eyes and continue your day. 

If you like this exercise, you may want to try meditation.  There is growing evidence of it's many benefits to women's health and mental health. There are many different ways to do it.  Nearly everyone can find one that suits her.  A good website to try is abc-of-meditation.com  CLICK HERE to go to their beginner's page .