Does depression vary by gender?

Experts estimate that women are twice as likely to suffer from chronic depression or major depression. However, experts are unsure why this discrepancy between genders exists.

Researchers are studying myriad possibilities for the higher rates in women, including hormones, genetics, biology and psychosocial factors.

One possible explanation is that men may be less willing to seek help. They may be willing to admit to irritability, loss of interest in activities and a change in sleep patterns. But they typically do not share feelings of worthlessness and sadness. Men also are more likely than women to use or drugs or alcohol to mask their feelings.

Women are more likely to acknowledge feelings of guilt, sadness and worthlessness.