Ever wonder why depression seems to hit women more often than men?
A massive Australian study may have just brought us a step closer to the answer — and it lies deep in our DNA.
Researchers in Brisbane analyzed genetic data from nearly half a million people.
They found something striking: women had about twice as many genetic markers linked to depression as men.
“We already know females are twice as likely to suffer from depression,” said Dr. Brittany Mitchell of QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.
“But until now, we didn’t know how genetics might explain that gap.”
The team discovered around 7,000 DNA variations tied to depression in both sexes — and another 6,000 unique to women.
What’s More Intriguing?
The genes connected to depression in women overlapped with those linked to metabolism.
This possibly explains why women with depression often face fatigue or weight changes.
Mitchell’s team hopes the findings push drug research to better represent women.
“Most drug trials are still male-focused,” she noted, calling for more gender-specific approaches.
Because when it comes to mental health, it seems our genes are speaking — and it’s high time medicine started listening.
