Depression affects millions of women worldwide, but it takes on unique dimensions as we age. Women over 50 are at particular risk, with hormonal shifts, life transitions, and even physical changes in the body contributing to low mood and loss of vitality. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies depression as a leading cause of disability globally, affecting over 300 million people worldwide.
In Chinese medicine, depression is often viewed not just as a mental condition but as a weakening of chi – our vital life force. When chi is stagnant or depleted, the body struggles to function optimally. A weakened liver, for example, is associated with fatigue, malaise, and emotional heaviness. Supporting liver health with herbs like milk thistle and engaging in detox practices can help restore balance, especially for women who have endured surgery, medications, or long-term stress.
Causes of Depression in Older Women
Depression can arise for many reasons. Sometimes it is situational, triggered by loss, grief, financial stress, or a dramatic life transition. Other times it is more free-floating, without a clear cause, often linked to physiological imbalances. Common contributors include:
- Loss of a spouse, partner, or loved one
- Declining health or chronic pain
- Retirement and loss of purpose
- Empty nest or feelings of isolation
- Financial stress
- Side effects of medications
- Hormonal imbalances (especially low progesterone, estrogen, and thyroid function)
- Weakened liver function or toxin overload.
It’s worth noting that low progesterone – common in midlife and beyond – can play a significant role as well. Progesterone is calming and mood-stabilizing; by the 60s, many women have lost up to 95% of their progesterone. Without it, symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and depression often surface. Estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and cortisol also interact with mood and energy, making hormonal balance critical for emotional well-being.
The Problem with Medications
While antidepressants can provide temporary relief, studies suggest they are often no more effective than placebo for mild to moderate depression. More importantly, they tend to blunt both lows and highs – bringing people to a midline where sadness may be dulled, but joy and vitality are also harder to access. Many common prescription and over-the-counter medications – including aspirin, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, and some pain relievers – list depression as a side effect.
Natural Ways to Restore Your Life Force
The good news is that depression does not have to define your later years. Research shows that 80% of our health outcomes are within our control, while only 20% are determined by genetics. That means most of us have far more influence over our mood, energy, and future than we’ve been led to believe.
Here are 10 natural approaches to restoring vitality and lifting depression:
Exercise Daily
Countless studies confirm that exercise is one of the most effective antidepressants available. Even a 20-minute brisk walk can boost endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine.
Support the Liver
Use herbs such as milk thistle and incorporate regular detoxes to clear toxins and medications that burden the liver. Many women find a cleanse is the first step toward restored energy and mood.
Balance Hormones
Bioidentical hormones, natural progesterone creams, or supporting adrenal and thyroid health can make a profound difference. Please reach out if you’d like a reference to a medical lab that specializes in this testing.
Get Sunshine
Low vitamin D is strongly linked with depression. Aim for 15–20 minutes of daily sun exposure or supplement if needed. Getting outside in the early morning light has been shown to support our circadian rhythm and stimulate our ATP-cellular energy.
Ground Yourself
Walking barefoot on the soil or using a grounding mat has been shown to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, and elevate mood. Many women report immediate results. Personally, I used a grounding mat daily during surgery recovery – within 10 minutes I could feel my low mood had lifted some.
Eat Mood-Boosting Foods
Omega-3s, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and colorful fruits provide nutrients essential for brain health. Avoid sugar and processed foods, which create crashes and inflammation.
Essential Oils
Oils like lavender, bergamot, and frankincense are shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Get one of those plug-in diffusers to make it easy.
Strengthen Social Connections
Loneliness is one of the greatest predictors of depression in older women. Regular contact with friends, groups, or volunteer work provides meaning and purpose. Those that live in the Blue Zones site that social connection is one of the most fulfilling parts of their lives.
Sleep Deeply
Poor sleep is both a symptom and cause of depression. Natural sleep aids such as magnesium, calming teas, or progesterone support can help restore restful nights.
Find Purpose
Whether it’s travel, volunteering, learning, or creating, having a reason to wake up each day fuels our life force and wards off depression.
My Personal Story
After hip surgery, I experienced a period of deep uncertainty and low mood that was very new to me. The anesthesia and medications had taken a toll on my liver, leaving me sluggish and sad. What helped me recover wasn’t more medication – it was a full-body cleanse, grounding practices, sunshine, and natural liver support.
Slowly, my energy returned, my mood lifted, and I regained my sense of purpose founding The Wise Women of Wellness Community. This space is specifically designed to help women over 50 have the natural tools they need to create health and vitality… at any age.
Final Thoughts
Depression in women over 50 is not simply a “normal part of aging.” It is a signal that the body, mind, and spirit are asking for restoration. By addressing root causes – whether hormonal, nutritional, energetic, or emotional – you can reclaim vitality and joy.
Your most radiant years are not behind you. They are waiting for you to nurture your life force and step into them fully.
Discover what’s possible when you combine timeless natural wisdom with modern wellness. In Wise Women of Wellness, Dr. Shirley guides women 50+ to restore their vitality, confidence and radiance… naturally. Come join us!
Let’s Have a Conversation:
How has depression affected your life? What has been the culprit that gets you down the most? Is it medication, unhealthy lifestyle or something else?
