Why Women Are at Greater Risk for Depression Than Men

Depression can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or background. However, research shows that depression in women is more common than in men. In fact, women are twice as likely to face mental health challenges like depression.¹

This gender gap in depression rates raises important questions about depression in women compared to men. What factors contribute to this disparity?

Understanding depression in women vs. men

The difference in rates of depression in women versus men comes down to various factors:^1,2

• Hormonal changes throughout a woman's life
• Pregnancy and postpartum depression
• Societal pressures
• Trauma from emotional, physical, or sexual abuse

Hormonal changes throughout a woman's life

There is a clear link between women's mental health and sex hormones. This increases the risk for anxiety and depression.²

Puberty

Puberty is an emotional rollercoaster for both boys and girls. However, girls experience a unique surge in hormones during adolescence. This surge can affect mood regulation. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels may make girls more vulnerable to mood disorders. This is especially true during this transitional period.^1,2

These hormonal changes that come with puberty often occur earlier in girls than in boys. After puberty – during a woman's reproductive years – the rates of depression are higher among women than men.^1,2

PMS and PMDD

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects nearly all women during their menstrual cycle. Symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, irritability, and sadness can intensify. This usually happens in the days leading up to a woman's period.^1,2

Experts think that the changes in hormones during this time could impact chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are responsible for mood regulation. Therefore, PMS could make depression in women more likely. Men do not have this specific risk for mood disorders.^1,2

Some women go on to develop premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). About 5 to 8 percent of women have PMDD. PMDD is a much more severe form of PMS. It causes intense changes in mood. While PMDD is more rare than PMS, it can greatly affect a woman's quality of life.^1,2

Perimenopause and menopause

As women approach menopause, typically in their late 40s to early 50s, they undergo big hormonal changes. Fluctuating estrogen levels can trigger symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and sleep problems. These symptoms can take a toll on mental health. Combined with the physical changes of aging, they can increase the risk of depression in women during this stage of life.^1,2

Pregnancy and postpartum depression

Pregnancy and childbirth are profound, life-altering events. But they also come with a heightened risk of depression in women. Postpartum depression (PPD) can occur after giving birth. This results from extreme drops in estrogen and progesterone.^1,2

PPD is very common – 10 to 15 percent of women have postpartum depression. PPD is marked by intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts. Mothers may also feel an inability to care for their newborn alongside fatigue. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the stress of caring for a newborn can all lead to the development of mood disorders like PPD.^1,2

How do societal pressures affect women's mental health?

Hormones are not the only factor. Societal and environmental influences play a crucial role in women's mental health. In today's society, women often face unequal power dynamics. They also face systemic inequality. These things can lead to feelings of stress, inadequacy, and frustration. They may also cause a lack of control and low self-esteem.^1,3

Unequal pay is just one glaring example. To date, women are still paid less than their male counterparts.³

There are other major stressors. Work overload, caregiving responsibilities, and the pressure to balance career and family can make these challenges worse. This increases the risk for depression in women.^1,3

Trauma from emotional, physical, or sexual abuse

Unfortunately, many women have lived through emotional, sexual, and/or physical abuse. This can happen at some point in their lives. The trauma of abuse has long-lasting effects on mental health.¹

Women who have experienced abuse may struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness. This makes them more vulnerable to depression in women. These experiences increase the likelihood of having depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mood disorders.¹

Getting support and treatment for depression

While women may be at a greater risk for depression than men, there is help available. Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can make a huge difference. Proper care helps in managing depression. Therapy, medicine, lifestyle changes, and support groups are all effective treatment options for improving mental health.^1,2