Abnormal levels of certain stress and growth hormones may also play some role in depression. In its healthy state, the pain this response causes provides both an incentive to disengage and a passive, withdrawn state that allows a period of thoughtful time before changing direction. Such a theory does not, however, rule out biologic or other factors that can contribute to depression disorders. Specific Causes of Depression in Women Women, regardless of nationality or socioeconomic level, have significantly higher rates of depression than men. The causes of such higher rates appear to be a mix of biologic and cultural factors.
All women are at risk for emotional swings when they experience extreme hormonal shifts.
These forms of depression recede or stop after menopause. It is not considered postpartum depression, however, unless it persists beyond a week or two and is very severe. One study strongly suggested that the fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone accompanying childbirth may play a major role in postpartum depression, at least in women who are sensitive to such changes. Women with prior depressive episodes, new mothers whose infants have medical problems, and women who lack social support appear to have a higher risk for postpartum depression. It should be noted that many male partners of new mothers also suffer from depression surrounding the birth of a child.