According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly twice as many women as men are affected by a depressive disorder each year. Research shows that before adolescence and late in life, females and males experience depression with the same frequency. Because the gender difference in depression is not seen until after puberty and decreases following menopause, researchers hypothesize that hormonal factors are involved in women's greater vulnerability.

In the past, research studies were conducted only with men, and the results from the research were applied to both men and women without considering the physiological and emotional differences between the genders. Today's research provides a clearer understanding of both the risk and protective factors for various mental illnesses in women.

Strong Behavioral Health and The Mental Health Association will host a free educational program on the role of gender in the treatment of depression on Wednesday, November 7, at the Rochester Academy of Medicine, 1441 East Avenue. There will be a free hors d'oeuvres reception at 5:30 p.m. with the program beginning promptly at 6 p.m.

The topics and speakers for the evening are "Understanding the Physiological and Emotional Differences" presented by Linda Chaudron, M.D., M.S. Dr. Chaudron is the Director of Strong Behavioral Healthcare for Women and Director of Psychiatric Consultation Services at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Ellen Poleshuck, Ph.D., will be presenting on "Mental Health: Evaluation and Treatment." Dr. Poleshuck is a Senior Instructor of Psychiatry, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Family Medicine at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Limited seating is available, seating reservations are suggested. Contact the Mental Health Association at 716-325-3145 to reserve a space.