Important facts about depression:
- Depression is a very important medical condition. It affects 5-13% of adults. It is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and costs more than $80 billion a year in direct and indirect medical expenses.
- Women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression, the incidence of depression among women ranges from 10-23%.
- About 14-23% of women who are pregnant will have depression
- About 70% of women who have just delivered a baby will develop the baby blues, this should last two weeks at the most.
- About 10-15% of women will develop post partum depression.
- Women (and men) should be encouraged to "speak up when they are down."
- Treatment options include therapy and anti-depressants. Some people find aerobic exercise helpful. Efforts to reduce stress and anxiety may also help.
- Medical illness
- Family history
- Bereavement
- Unemployment
- Substance abuse
>> Learn more about postpartum depression
About Dr. Jennifer Gunter:
Dr Gunter is a nationally and internationally renowned obstetrician/gynecologist and a leading expert in the field of sexual health. She is the recipient of numerous awards and has published extensively in medical journals.
>> Learn more about Dr. Gunter at the SF Sexual Health Examiner's
>> Follow Dr. Gunter on Twitter
