Men and women may react to depression in different ways. Depression symptoms in women may be particularly hard to identify, and individuals will need to pay close attention to their moods in order to eventually receive a correct diagnosis. Honest descriptions can help psychiatrists and nurses practitioners determine the proper course of treatment.

One specific symptom that affects many depressed women is difficulty sleeping. This can take a number of different forms. Some will have quite severe insomnia, in which they have trouble falling asleep in the evening. Racing thoughts, for example, may keep them awake well into the night. Other women may be able to fall asleep but will wake up several times during the night. This can leave individuals exhausted as they head off to work or school in the morning. At the other end of the spectrum, women may also be overly tired and will sleep much more than the usually required eight hours per night.

Depressed women also tend to isolate themselves from family, friends, and other loved ones. Withdrawal may be seen as a form of embarrassment, as people are often ashamed that they are feeling sad and down. Isolation is closely associated with a loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed on a regular basis. Because interaction with other human beings is recognized as key improver of mood, individuals who have withdrawn from family members should be encouraged to take part in social activities as much as possible.

A woman who is clinically depressed may also express feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and despair. Often, these thoughts will be accompanied by suicidal ideation. Because depression itself warps thinking and produces negative thought patterns, most sufferers usually need professional help in order to beat the disease. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in which people try to break the pessimistic thoughts that run through their heads, is a good start. Therapists and other professionals will often have specific counseling ideas that can make it easier for patients to begin feeling somewhat better about their futures.

Ultimately, depression symptoms in women can range widely. Some people may experience irritability and even anger, while others will slowly draw away from others. Because anxiety often exists in tandem with depression, sufferers would do well to get checked out by an expert in the field as soon as possible. Professionals can determine the severity of the case and may even recommend some form of medication. With support, the condition can be beaten and women can regain the many joys in life.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).