Female depression has been found to far exceed than among males. The real reason may have to do with the various roles women are forced to play in society, and the stresses and strains and abuses they are exposed to. Female depression has been found to have certain distinct differences from that affecting the males.

Women tend to give vent to their depressions through such things as self-blame, overeating, and taking care of others. Female depression is characterized by moodiness, anxiety, fright, low self confidence, nervousness, withdrawal, fear of success etc. As to why women fall victim more to depressions remain a mystery.

Studies have shown that female depression is rampant across a wide variety of cultures, regardless of their status. A study on relation between depression and reproductive functions points to the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone as the main culprits. In addition to classical depression, women are also subject to specific types related to their ability to bear children, such as post-partum depression and depression brought on by PMS.

The diagnostic criteria for depression are the same for both sexes. Women may achieve higher plasma concentrations of antidepressants and thus may require lower dosages of these medications. But as in the case with other forms of depressions a combination therapy is often more effective. SSRIs are effective in treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder and many comorbid conditions associated with depression in women.

Psychotherapy may be used alone in women with mild to moderate depression.  Hospitalization becomes necessary for those affected with severe depression, psychosis, substance abuse, severe hopelessness, suicidal tendencies or limited social support. Typically, such patients require management by a psychiatrist.

In addition to confirming the diagnosis of female depression, its relationship to menstruation, pregnancy, the perinatal period or the perimenopausal period should be taken into account. All possible links for depression that can be treated should be analyzed first. Further treatments should be advised only if the patient fails to respond to this.

Psychosocial therapies can address issues that particularly affect women, such as competing roles and conflicts. Commonly used treatments include psychotherapy to correct communicative, behavioral, negative thinking, and reduce family conflicts. In patients with mild to moderate depression, psychosocial therapies may be used alone, or with antidepressant drugs together for a period of time.

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