WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH

WRITER:

DR.

THOMAS J. VALENTE

Major Depressive Disorder will be the leading cause of disability in the world of women and children, according to the National Women’s Health Resource Center and Eli Lilly and Company. Currently, more than 12 million women are suffering from depression, and women are 2 to 3 times more likely than men to develop depressive disorders.

Causes of major depression:

BIOLOGICAL FACTORS:

• Heredity—a history of depression in the family

• Brain chemistry— Depression alters balance of brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine, both of which allow brain cells to communicate.

• Hormonal system— Depression may interfere with the endocrine system.

• Sleep-wake controls— Depressed individuals may show signs of disruption in sleep patterns.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS:

• Cognitive and behavioral factors—negative thinking about self-environment and future

• Stress and life traumas—major losses, serious illness, physical or emotional abuse and conflicts with family members. It also can stem from major events such as moving, graduating, changing jobs, divorce, retirement or the death of a loved one.

How can women achieve a healthy balance?

• Identify the imbalance so you can begin strengthening your sense of self.

• Create balance by setting aside personal space and time.

• Establish a routine that encourages self-awareness through self-understanding and self-discipline.

• Give back to the community by volunteering, educating and being a facilitator of change.