Researchers have reported that women and men can experience depression differently, and while both genders may share many common symptoms and signs, understanding these differences may better help those who suffer from this condition. The Connors Center for Women’s Health and Gender Biology director of research Jill Goldstein states that understanding the sex differences when it comes to depression is essential because it helps understand the condition better.
Goldstein notes that among the most significant differences between the genders when it comes to depression is the fact that women are twice as likely to develop the condition in comparison with men. Goldstein explains that this is, in part, based on biological reasons, such as genes and hormones getting disrupted when regions in the brain are developing in the female and male fetus. These biological changes occurring as a fetus develops are what create a vulnerability to mood disorders such as depression, she notes.
Additionally, Goldstein explains that women are able to describe their feelings when they’re depressed much better than men as women tend to be more tuned into their emotions. Men may also not recognize their symptoms of depression, so the condition may be overlooked until it become more severe.
Below are a few additional ways in which depression may look different in women and men.
Women may ruminate more when feeling depressed.
In comparison to men dealing with depression, women suffering from this condition are more likely to rehash negative feelings and dwell on them. Researchers note that ruminating only makes the condition worse.
Men are more likely to commit suicide.
This illness may develop into a more severe mental health issue because symptoms of depression in men often go longer without being treated or diagnosed. This is why men with depression are more likely to be successful when they attempt suicide.
Men’s depression symptoms aren’t easily recognized.
It is difficult to pick up on depressive symptoms in men, despite women being more vulnerable to this condition. Men may therefore end up with severe depression before it’s detected or diagnosed.
Men are more likely to abuse substances such as alcohol.
Prior to depression setting in, men may turn to drugs or drink heavily to medicate themselves. In women, substance abuse often occurs as the levels of anxiety increase or after the onset of depression. Men who suffer from depression may also use other outlets to masks their sadness, with researchers noting that the condition may likely manifest as irritability and anger in teenage boys and men.
Depression is such a widespread mental health condition that a number of companies, including Cybin Inc. (NEO: CYBN) (OTCQB: CLXPF), are looking to develop a new class of anti-depressants from psilocybin and other psychedelic compounds.
NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Cybin Inc. (NEO: CYBN) (OTCQB: CLXPF) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/CYBN
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