Depression has become increasingly common in the world, especially in industrialised countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Physicians often referred to depression as ‘the common cold of psychiatry.
Statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO) have indicated that one in every four Nigerians, that is, an average of 50 million people, is suffering from a mental illness. Researchers have also shown that the rising cases of mental health issues in Nigeria have been linked to factors such as poor economic conditions, rising cases of illiteracy, marriage crisis, polygamy, and large families, among others.
Figures for the lifetime prevalence of depression vary according to the criteria used to define depression. Using DSM-IV’s criteria for ‘major depressive disorder’, which are similar to the ICD-10 criteria for ‘moderate depression’, the lifetime prevalence of depression is about 15 per cent and the point prevalence about 5 per cent. This means that an average person has about a one in seven (15 per cent) chance of developing depression in the course of his or her lifetime and about a 1 in 20 (5 per cent) chance of suffering from it at this very point in time.
However, these figures mask a very uneven gender distribution, as depression is about twice as common in women as in men.
The reasons for this uneven gender distribution are not entirely clear but are thought to be partly biological, partly psychological, and partly sociocultural.
Biological explanations
Compared to men, women are more subject to fluctuating hormone levels. This is especially the case around the time of childbirth and menopause, both of which are associated with an increased risk of developing depression. Beyond this, women might also have a stronger genetic predisposition to developing depression.
Psychological explanations
Women are more ruminative than men; that is, they tend to think about things more, which, although generally a good thing, may predispose them to develop depression. In contrast, men are more likely to respond to difficult times with stoicism, anger, or alcohol or drug misuse. Women also tend to be more invested in relationships than men and, therefore, more affected by relationship problems.
Sociocultural explanations
Women come under more stress than men. Not only do they have to go to work just like men, but they may also be expected to bear the brunt of maintaining a home, bringing up children, caring for older relatives, and, after all that, putting up with all the sexism! Women live longer than men, and extreme old age is associated with bereavement, loneliness, ill health, and precarity.
Finally, women are more likely to seek out a diagnosis of depression. They are more likely to consult a doctor and more likely to discuss their feelings with the doctor. Conversely, doctors, both male and female, may be more inclined to diagnose depression in a woman.
Depression can be treated
Even the most severe cases of depression can be treated. Depression is commonly treated with medication, psychotherapy (also called “talk therapy”), or a combination of the two.
Antidepressants are medications commonly used to treat depression. People respond differently to antidepressants, and you may need to try different medicines to find the one that works best. Researchers are also studying and developing other medications for depression, such as brexanolone for postpartum depression and esketamine.
There are many different types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy. The particular approach a therapist uses depends on the condition being treated and the training and experience of the therapist. Therapists also may combine and adapt elements of different approaches.
Depression affects each individual differently. There is no “one-size-fits-all” treatment. It may take some trial and error to find the treatment that works best. You can learn more about the different types of depression treatment, including psychotherapy, medication, and brain stimulation therapies, on the NIMH’s webpage about depression. Visit the Food and Drug Administration website for the latest information on medication approvals, warnings, and patient information guides.
What to Consider When Looking for a Therapist
Therapists and patients work together, and finding a good match is important. The following tips can help you find the right therapist.
- Ask about their areas of expertise. Therapists have different professional backgrounds and specialities. You want to find a therapist who has experience working with your specific condition.
- Find out what kinds of treatments they use. Ask if those treatments are effective for dealing with your particular mental health problem or issue.
- Find out how you’ll evaluate progress. Determine how long treatment is expected to last, and when you should expect to gain relief from symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Don’t be afraid to keep looking. Rapport and trust are essential. Discussions in therapy are deeply personal, and it’s important that you feel comfortable with the therapist you pick.
NOTE: Perhaps you can think of some other reasons why depression is twice as common in women than in men, in which case please let us know in the comments section.
