Women often ignore signs of depression. They brush aside feelings of emptiness or frustration. They consider bouts of irritability as a result of too little time and too many demands. Also, they think being unusually tired or having problems sleeping is part of being a woman in the 21st century. While all of these symptoms may be part of life in the 21st century, they are also indicators of depression.

Support groups provide a safe space for women to share and address the often overlooked signs of depression.

The Landscape of Women and Depression

Depression is a treatable medical condition. It results from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. For women, hormonal, social, and biological influences can determine their mental health. For example, women often experience depressive episodes during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, postpartum periods, and perimenopausal changes.

A recent Gallup poll found that 36.7% of women have been diagnosed with depression during their life and that almost 24% are currently under treatment. This latest poll found that lifetime depression rates among Black and Hispanic adults have surpassed those of White respondents for the first time. Individuals reporting a mixed racial identity had the highest rate of major depressive episodes at almost 16%.

The survey results showed a significant increase in depression in women over the last seven years. Women continue to do most household tasks, such as cleaning and cooking. They are often the ones who leave the workforce to care for children or aging parents.

Depression can manifest in many ways, but support and understanding make a world of difference.

What Does Depression Look Like?

Depression is not a one-size-fits-all medical condition. It may begin with irritability or trouble sleeping. It may start with bouts of fatigue that increase until you can't live your life as you once did. Also, it can progress until you feel hopeless and incapable of facing the world. While everyone experiences depression differently, some signs can help you identify depression in yourself or someone you love.

Irritability

You may have a friend or family member who was diagnosed with depression. They may have struggled with making decisions and became irritable at minor frustrations. However, that doesn't mean that you will experience those same symptoms.

Exhaustion

You may feel exhausted minutes after getting out of bed. You may make plans but cancel at the last minute. Also, you don't have the energy or desire to do anything. Those feelings are also signs of depression.

Feelings of Inadequacy

Sometimes, a change in circumstances can trigger depression. New mothers often feel out of their depth during the first weeks at home with an infant. However, they navigate through early motherhood to enjoy their child. Some mothers experience feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness that worsen over time. If you or someone you know is feeling useless or empty, reach out to a healthcare professional for help.

Feelings of Hopelessness

While it's normal to feel sad after losing a loved one, intense grief that creates feelings of hopelessness can be a sign of depression. Many events can trigger such feelings -- overwhelming debt, addiction, toxic relationships. Any of these circumstances can make you feel that nothing will change or get better. When you have those thoughts, find someone to help you see hope again.

Thoughts of Suicide

Severe depression may lead to thoughts of suicide. You may find yourself preoccupied with the idea or envision a life without you. If you are having these thoughts, contact a suicide crisis hotline. If someone you know has talked about suicide, do not minimize the discussion and seek help immediately.

Other Symptoms

Depression can be situational, brought on by changes in circumstances. It can be clinical, impacting how you think, feel, and behave. Depression can even include physical symptoms. Here is a list of possible symptoms:

Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
Changes in appetite, resulting in weight loss or gain
Lack energy
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Changes in sleep patterns
Feeling worthless or guilty
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Unable to make decisions
Thoughts of suicide
Unexplained aches and pains

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek help from a healthcare provider. With proper treatment, you can get better.

Taking the first step toward treatment brings hope and healing, guiding you back to a brighter future.

Finding Treatment

Effective treatment can result in improved physical, mental, social, and emotional health. It can help you develop new skills to better cope with feelings of depression. Treatment programs are designed to help you gain control over your thoughts and behaviors. They will help you find new strategies for enjoying life.

The first step in finding treatment is acknowledging your depression. A primary care provider or access to a mental health professional has the resources to help you find the right treatment. If you're not sure how to discuss your concerns, review these tips from the National Institute of Mental Health.

If you are uncomfortable speaking with a healthcare professional, there are support groups and mental health services that can help. The Mountain Strong website can help you locate mental health services in your area.

You may want to speak to a close friend or family member for added support before seeking treatment. Talking through your concerns with someone you trust can help focus your thoughts. Do not be afraid to ask them to accompany you as you begin your journey back to mental wellness.

Types of Treatment

The most common treatments for depression are psychotherapy and anti-depressants.

Psychotherapies

Psychotherapies include counseling or talk therapy. Evidence-based treatments for depression help people to develop new ways of thinking. As their thoughts change, they develop new strategies for coping, helping them change habits and behaviors.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression. They alter how the brain uses chemicals that impact mood or stress. It may take a period of adjustment before finding the medication that addresses your symptoms. Never take or stop taking antidepressants without speaking with a healthcare provider.

Support Groups

Joining a support group in combination with other treatments can help. Sharing your experiences with others who suffer from depression can help remove the sense of isolation that often accompanies depression. Visit SpeakUp ReachOut's Peer Support or Mountain Strong for local support groups.

Self-Help

As you feel better, you can incorporate some of the following habits for a healthier lifestyle. You may want to invite others to join you on your path to a more fulfilling life.

Exercise for 30 minutes a day. Walk, swim, play tennis, or golf a few holes. Physical activity is a great way to release positive chemicals in your brain.
Maintain a schedule with regular sleep and meal times.
Connect with people through support groups or trusted friends.
Avoid alcohol, nicotine, or drugs unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Find added coping skills here. These self-help suggestions should be discussed with your treatment provider before starting.

Moving Into the Light

Depression is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. It is a medical condition that can be treated. By bringing depression into the open, we can improve the quality of life for many women. We can form a community that supports women as they seek treatment.

Shadows and Light: Navigating Depression in Womanhood