Social and cultural factors affecting depression in women
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It's not just biology that may account for the higher rate of depression in women. Social and cultural stressors may play a role, too. Although these stressors also occur in men, it's usually at a lower rate. Women are more likely than men to shoulder the burden of both work and family responsibilities, for instance. They're also more likely to have lower incomes, be single parents and have a history of sexual or physical abuse, all of which can contribute to depression, especially in women who've had depression in the past.
Unequal power and status
In general, American women earn less money than men do. Single women with children have one of the highest poverty rates in the United States. Low socioeconomic status brings with it many concerns and stressors, including uncertainty about the future and less access to community and health care resources. Minority women might also face added stress from racial discrimination. These issues can make you feel as if you don't have control over your life. That, in turn, can contribute to feelings of passivity, negativism and lack of self-esteem, which all increase your risk of depression.
Work overload
Many women work outside the home but still handle the bulk of domestic chores. That means they often log more hours each week attending to the needs of others than men do. Many women also find themselves dealing with the challenges and stress that can accompany single parenthood, such as working multiple jobs to make ends meet. In addition, many find themselves as caregivers sandwiched between generations ? caring for their young children while also caring for sick and older family members. These kinds of stressors might make you vulnerable to depression.
Sexual and physical abuse
Women who were emotionally, physically or sexually abused as children are more likely to experience depression at some point in their lives than are those who weren't abused. Women who were raped as teenagers or young adults also have a higher incidence of depression. Although sexual abuse also occurs in boys and young men, it's more common among girls and young women. Adult women who experience abuse are also at greater risk of depression.
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