Menopause is known to facilitate changes in your body, but did you know that menopause can also affect your mental health?
If you have feelings of depression and anxiety, you are not alone. According to Harvard Medical School, the incidence of depression in women doubles during this time. If you have struggled with depression and anxiety in the past, you may see these symptoms resurface.
Why do these feelings occur? Shifts in female hormones can cause mood changes at various stages of life, including pre-menstrual and post-partum, so it’s no surprise that the changes that your body is going through may spark these reactions.
Typically, depressive symptoms during perimenopause are mild. Significant mood issues may occur in women who have a history of depression and anxiety. The reason for these feelings may not be one hundred percent hormone based, as menopause often comes at a stage in life where multiple sources of stress may be present, such as dealing with aging parents, caring for children, and navigating life changes. Mood disturbances may also be prompted by lack of sleep, a common problem due to nighttime hot flashes or other sleep disturbances.
So what can you do to keep your mental health in check during this new life stage?
Making lifestyle changes, such as exercising, getting adequate sleep, and stress relief techniques can help. Don’t struggle alone, reach out to others for help if necessary. Monitor your mood, taking note of other factors that may impact your mental health. Lastly, know that this is temporary. Depressive feelings typically don’t last, and hormones tend to ease as time increases. If you’re finding that symptoms are persisting, talk to a professional about further options. Remember that your body is going through natural changes, and you are not alone!
Reference: Publishing, H. H. (2020, March). Menopause and mental health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/menopause-and-mental-health.