The symptoms of depression in women are more visible than in men. In fact, studies have
shown that women are likely to experience depression twice as much as men.
This, in part could be due to hormonal fluctuations during premenstrual
syndrome (PMS), premenopausal depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and
postpartum depression. Compared to men, women are more likely to experience
feelings of guilt, weight disorder, food disorder and sleep disorders.
Depression
in Older Women
Depression
in older women can be due to a variety of reasons since most changes take place
during the later stages of life. Conditions like retirement, isolation, loss of
loved ones, health issues, etc can cause depression in elderly women. This
prevents them from enjoying life in their later years. Depression can impact
almost every aspect of their lives, making them feel miserable and
worthless. There are many who tend to
ignore the signs of depression in older women as a part of aging or put
it down to mood swings. However, this is not true. There are quite a few things
that one should understand about depression in the elderly in order to face the
challenge head on.
Why
Depression Affects the Elderly?
Depression
is a very common condition amongst older women. Many women feel a sense of
hopelessness and do not take any interest even in activities they enjoyed
earlier. They find it very tough get through the day. Unfortunately, most women
either fail to recognize the signs of depression or tend to overlook
them. There are many reasons for this. Many elderly women put it down to the
age factor. Likewise, they fail to realize that their physical pains may be
related to depression. In case of those staying alone, a sense of loneliness
can cause depression. Similarly, many find it difficult to talk about their
condition and ask for help.
Causes
of Depression in Older Women
There
are various factors that lead to depression in older women. These could be due
to health issues, loneliness, feeling worthless, fear, lack of purpose, loss of
loved ones, etc. The symptoms of depression in women related to health
issues could be chronic pain, disability, illness, cognitive decline, surgery,
etc. Likewise, lack of friends or social circle due to relocation or loss of
driving ability can make feel lonely. Typically, many elderly women feel a loss
of identity and purpose because of retirement or any other physical
limitations. One of the surest signs of depression is fear. For many it
is the fear of death while for some it can be due to health conditions and in
some fear could be due to financial issues. Loss of a friend, pet, family
member or partner can also lead to depression amongst older women. Physical
illness is also one of the symptoms that can lead to depression amongst elderly
women.
Finally,
the symptoms of depression in women are not restricted to only a few. It
is quite common and can happen to anybody and at any age. However, this
condition can be treated and with proper treatment and support, older women can
lead a happy life.
To help you can get more detailed information about this disease, you can read here. Besides, you can check here to support more knowledge of disease symptoms. If you want to ask any questions, leave a comment at LindanahiForcier@gmail.com. We are happy to support enough information to you.
