The 3 Types of Depression Unique to Women: Are You Experiencing One?
Did you know that 1 in 5 women have a common mental health problem like anxiety or depression? That’s twice as many as men.
Twelve million women experience clinical depression each year in America. In fact, there are three types of depression that are unique to women, as well as those experienced by both sexes. Often, women brush these serious conditions aside because they are linked to other hormonal changes, like menstruation and pregnancy. But it’s important to educate ourselves so we can seek treatment should they occur.
Below are the three types and their symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing one, book an appointment with one of our therapists, speak to your doctor, or join our free community to message with therapists right now.
1. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a much more serious condition than PMS, with disabling symptoms such as irritability, anger, depressed mood, sadness, suicidal thoughts, appetite changes, bloating, breast tenderness, and joint or muscle pain.
2. Perinatal Depression
Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that can affect women during pregnancy and after childbirth, and is much more serious than the “baby blues” which go away after a week or two. Mothers experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and fatigue that may make it difficult for them to carry out daily tasks, including caring for themselves, their new child, or others.
3. Perimenopausal Depression
Perimenopause (the transition into menopause) can cause abnormal periods, problems sleeping, mood swings, and hot flashes. Although these symptoms are common, feeling depressed is not. If you are struggling with irritability, anxiety, sadness, or loss of enjoyment at the time of the menopause transition, you may be experiencing peri-menopausal depression.
If you think you may be experiencing any of these conditions, or any depression at all, speak to your doctor, book an appointment with one of our therapists or join our free community to message with them right away.
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Thanks to NIMH for information.
