Stresses and Disability in Depression across Gender

Abstract

Depression, though generally episodic, results in lasting disability, distress, and burden. Rising prevalence of depression and suicide in the context of epidemiological transition demands more attention to social dimensions like gender related stresses, dysfunction, and their role in outcome of depression. Cross-sectional and follow-up assessment of men and women with depression at a psychiatric tertiary centre was undertaken to compare their illness characteristics including suicidal ideation, stresses, and functioning on GAF, SOFAS, and GARF scales (N = 107). We reassessed the patients on HDRS-17 after 6 weeks of treatment. Paired t-test and chi-square test of significance were used to compare the two groups, both before and after treatment. Interpersonal and marital stresses were reported more commonly by women (P < 0.001) and financial stresses by men (P < 0.001) though relational functioning was equally impaired in both. Women had suffered stresses for significantly longer duration (P = 0.0038). Men had more impairment in social and occupational functioning compared to females (P = 0.0062). History of suicide attempts was significantly associated with more severe depression and lower levels of functioning in case of females with untreated depression. Significant cross-gender differences in stresses, their duration, and types of dysfunction mandate focusing on these aspects over and above the criterion-based diagnosis.

Perceived stigmatization and discrimination of people with mental illness: A survey-based study of the general population in five metropolitan cities in India

“…The transitional process in Indian societies has, especially in cities, shifted some of the caregiver responsibilities to men, gradually engendering an adjustment of social norms. [ 38 ] Nevertheless, close-knit family ties and hierarchies persist in India, and the immediate family remains the most important source of social support.…”

Correlation of Depression Symptoms and Interleukin-6 in Chronic Renal Disease with Regular Hemodialysis Patients

“…However, the frequency of males in depressed patients is inconsistent with the theory according to WHO [11] and research conducted by Deshpande et al in India which states that depression is more common in women. According to research Deshpande et al women are more susceptible to stress, especially in the family, prolonged stress causes women to be more sensitive to problems relationships at home or workplace [12]. This may be due to the higher progression of CKD in men than in women [12,13].…”

“…According to research Deshpande et al women are more susceptible to stress, especially in the family, prolonged stress causes women to be more sensitive to problems relationships at home or workplace [12]. This may be due to the higher progression of CKD in men than in women [12,13].…”

Depression in women in Indian context

“…Additional work and home responsibilities, caring for children and aging parents, abuse, and poverty also may trigger a depressive episode in women. [ 17 18 ] Evidence suggests that women respond differently than men to these events, making them more prone to depression.…”