Chapter 12 - A review on depression following major life transitions

Abstract

Moustafa et al. (2019) discussed how major life transitions such as postpartum depression and menopause lead to depression in women. In this paper, we expand on the major life transitions discussed by Moustafa et al. (2019), and extend the discussion to other major life transitions (such as retirement and entry to/exit from a prison) that can also lead to depression, in line with the transition theory of depression and the existing literature. Furthermore, possible evidence-based treatments or solutions for managing the depression caused by these major life events are suggested, and critical gaps in the existing literature identified and discussed.