Depression Symptoms in Women

Women can suffer from depression at an early age and most of them will not consider taking professional help due to the stigma associated with going to a psychiatrist. For parents understanding signs of teenage depression is very important for timely intervention and help. Depression is a mood disorder which can play havoc with a person’s feelings and emotions. Some of the common depression symptoms in women are feelings of helplessness and eating disorders. A few severe depression symptoms in women are suicidal tendencies and hallucinations. Some of the signs and symptoms of depression are:

Clinical Depression
People go through phases of depression and those who show persistent signs of depression over a period of time are considered to have clinical depression. This is a more severe form of depression as women suffering from this type of depression will have consistent mood swings and feelings of guilt. A person with clinical depression or major depressive disorder shows lack of interest in daily activities. Some of the other clinical depression symptoms in women are:

• Persistent feelings of sadness for no apparent reason
• Disruption in sleeping patterns
• Eating disorders leading to either weight gain or loss
• Loss in concentration levels
• Some even experience suicidal thoughts or show suicidal behavior

Bipolar Depression
Bipolar disorder or depression sees patients going through a manic episode, which at the beginning they like, but as it progresses the patients behavior becomes more risky. People with bipolar depression are prone to risk taking behavior and indulging in substance abuse like alcohol or drugs. A person suffering from bipolar disorder may complain of aches and pains which have no physical reason. Some of the bipolar depression symptoms in women are:

• Lack of interest and increased need for sleep
• Signs and symptoms of anxiety
• Some women may also cry uncontrollably for no apparent reason
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Intense and persistent feelings of sadness

Psychotic Depression
In this form of depression, a person will show all the tale tell signs of depression plus will showcase psychotic behavior like, paranoia and delusion. This type of depression is easily recognizable as the person will have extreme behavior and suicidal thoughts. Women suffering from psychotic depression may get angry without provocation and can become violent at times. Some of the psychotic depression symptoms are:

• Psychosis is one of the clear indicators of this type of depression
• High and persistent levels of agitation
• Patient will also experience insomnia
• Diminished thinking capacity and lack of interest in everyday activity
• Mild symptoms include constipation and fatigue

Some of the other depression symptoms in women are feelings of worthlessness and an inability to make simple decisions. It is advisable to seek professional medical help when a person experiences symptoms of depression because, if left untreated it can cause serious problems. Depression medication and psychological counseling are known to help people suffering from depression.