News
16 October, 2025
Women twice as likely to develop depression
WOMEN may be genetically predisposed to depression at far higher rates than men, according to the world’s largest study examining the genetic underpinnings of major depressive disorder.
Researchers led by neurogeneticist Dr Jodi Thomas and senior scientist Dr Brittany Mitchell at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute analysed DNA data from more than 200,000 people diagnosed with major depression across Australia, Europe, the UK and the United States.
The team identified about 7,000 genetic variants associated with depression in both sexes, and an additional 6,000 variants unique to females. The results, published in Nature Communications, suggest women carry nearly twice as many genetic risk factors for the disorder as men.
The study also confirmed that depression manifests differently between the sexes. Women were more likely to experience symptoms such as increased appetite, weight gain and excessive sleepiness, while men more often displayed anger, aggression and risk-taking behaviour.
Dr Thomas said many of the female-specific genetic factors were linked to metabolic traits, such as those influencing weight and energy regulation, pointing to potential new avenues for treatment.
“Therapies that target the shared biological pathways between metabolic traits and depression may prove particularly effective for women,” she said.
The research does not dismiss environmental or social influences, which remain significant contributors to depression risk, but highlights how sex-specific biology could shape vulnerability.
By separating male and female genetic data, the researchers were able to uncover differences that had been hidden in earlier, mixed-sex analyses.
They hope the findings will lead to more personalised approaches to diagnosis and treatment, and encourage similar investigations into other conditions where biological sex may play a key role.
