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Depression in Women

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 August 2018

E. S. Paykel
E. S. Paykel*
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge Department of Psychiatry, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 2QQ
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Abstract

Depression in treated samples shows an approximately 2:1 female predominance. The sex ratio is not due simply to more help-seeking behaviour in women, for it applies equally in studies of community prevalence. Differential acknowledgement and direction of distress may be a partial explanation, supported by male predominance of alcoholism and completed suicide, and by a possible recent increase in depression in young men. Biological mechanisms acting through hormonal effects on the brain are plausible, but hard to test. Epidemiological studies indicate that much of the excess occurs in married women aged 25–45 years with children. This strongly suggests social causation and highlights the vulnerable situation of young mothers. The full explanations for the sex difference are not yet clear, but are likely to combine factors related to expression of distress, biology and social situation.

Type
Research Article
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 158 , Issue S10: Women and Mental Health , May 1991 , pp. 22 - 29
Copyright
Copyright © Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1991 

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