Medicus, Vol. 33 No. 2 Zdravlje žene, 2024.
Review article
Gender Differences in Anxiety and Depression: Biological, Psychological and Social Factors
Dunja Degmečić
Anja Kereta
Abstract
Gender differences in the prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders are shaped by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. According to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), anxiety disorders manifest through persistent anxiety, fear or panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, sweating and muscle tension. Depressive disorder is characterized by prolonged low mood, loss of interest and energy with symptoms such as sleep disturbances, changes in appetite and low self-esteem. Women are twice as likely to develop these disorders compared to men, especially during adolescence. This difference is partly attributed to biological factors such as hormonal fluctuations, neurobiological differences and genetic predispositions. Psychological factors further influence gender differences, as research shows that women are more likely to use emotion-focused coping strategies while men prefer problem-solving. Social factors, including gender roles and the stigma surrounding mental health, also shape these differences affecting how individuals seek help and respond to treatment. Treatment involves a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Antidepressants and anxiolytics are often the first line of defense, while psychotherapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) help in long-term symptom management and relapse prevention.
Keywords
anxiety; depression; gender differences; etiological factors; therapy and treatment
Hrčak ID:
328494
URI
Publication date:
27.2.2025.
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