The finding that American women have significantly different perceptions of depression based on age has led to a new educational program, according to the National Women’s Health Resource Center, a sponsor of the survey and subsequent program development.

The national survey questioned 1,439 women, ages 21-69 years, who had been diagnosed with depression. In addition, 217 women, ages 21-69 years, who helped support someone with depression were also interviewed.

As a point of contrast, half of the youngest women, age 21-29, felt they would “just get over” depression; they reported relying heavily on friends and family. In contrast, the vast majority of women aged 60-69 years reported taking medication and not seeking social supports.

Overall, findings showed that most women are neither aware of the age-dependent circumstances that can put them at risk for depression nor do they adopt a comprehensive treatment approach that can increase the chances of becoming well.

Vivian Burt, MD, professor of psychiatry at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, said “The results of the survey highlight the need for age-specific information to ensure that all women are seeking proper treatment for their depression. Younger women need to understand that depression is a real illness that requires treatment, while older women need to know that support is a key component of a successful treatment program. Ages & Stages covers all aspects of depression and tailors the information to the specific needs of women at different points in their lives.”

“The Ages & Stages program sheds light on how women are affected by depression throughout their lives, and provides important information for women coping with depression,” said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of the National Women’s Health Resource Center.

The Ages & Stages guidebook incorporates various important survey topics into chapters based on age and stage of reproductive life:
Younger women (from the 20s through early 40s) tend to misunderstand depression and underestimate the seriousness of the illness. In fact, nearly 60 percent of women under age 29 thought that they would just “get over” their depression.

In fact, the first episode of major depression is most likely to happen in early adulthood. The program guide discusses situations when the risk for developing depression may be increased, including life events such as a new job, failed relationship and pregnancy. Women in this age group were likely to report they turned to friends and family members for support.

At the transition into menopause (mid-40s through 50s), there are tremendous physiologic and social changes. The survey revealed that about 12 percent of these women mistakenly attributed the symptoms of depression to menopause, a misperception that may result in these women being undiagnosed and untreated.

The program guide shows women how to identify symptoms of depression and the importance of working with a healthcare professional. It also focuses on other common causes of depression during this time, including “empty nest syndrome,” divorce and aging parents. Additionally, the guide offers suggestions for ways women can approach someone for support, and discusses the importance of talking about their depression with their spouse or partner.

Women in the 60s are often forced to manage their depression alone. Less than 20 percent of women in this age group who were surveyed included “talk to family and friends” as a way to manage their depression. Women in this age group were also most likely to be dealing with the loss of a spouse.