Loss of interest in sex, a disconnection from loved ones Thoughts of death or suicide Persistent physical complaints for which no other medical reason can be found. If these last for two weeks or more, experts suggest seeing a doctor for help. Genetics seem to play a role, as do hormonal changes throughout a woman's life, even at a young age. Trauma suffered by women early in childhood may put them at risk for depression later in life. And one episode of depression greatly increases likelihood of another, says Burt.
Depression feeds on itself.
Reeling Through the Years Adolescence, aside from the hormonal changes, places special stresses on girls that lead to depression. If you add to that a family history of depression as well as the hormonal changes, you may have young woman who is at tremendously increased risk. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome, includes depressed feelings and irritability. And depression after the birth of a child, or postpartum depression, is common, ranging from mild blues to severe and incapacitating depression, even in women with no previous problems with depression, says Julie Barnes, PhD, a psychologist in private practice in New York City. It can be really devastating.