Can Menopause and Perimenopause Cause Depression? The Experts Say Yes
- Timeless Youth
- Dec 14, 2024
- 5 min read
In a recent study, the prevalence of depression symptoms among peri- and post-menopausal women was 41.8%.*
One of the symptoms of menopause that is rarely talked about is how it affects your mental health. Hot flashes in the middle of the night cause loss of sleep, which can lead to exhaustion and depression. Weight gain, hair loss, and more can also cause self-esteem issues, which lead to feelings of sadness. Sudden feelings of irritability and lashing out at those around you can tear apart relationships. Not to mention possible hormonal imbalances, which can also greatly affect your mental health.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects an individual's feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
The symptoms can include:
A lack of interest in activities a person used to enjoy
Feelings of sadness, apathy, or emptiness
Fatigue or lack of energy
Trouble remembering and concentrating
Appetite changes, weight changes, or both
Difficulty sleeping or lethargy
Withdrawing from your normal life
Lack of joy in things that used to make you happy, including hobbies
It is possible to have some or all of these symptoms. Depression can also be mild or severe. If you see yourself in the list above...keep reading!
What are the Types of Depression?
There are several types; however, the most common among women in menopause is major depressive disorder (MDD). According to the 2018 review, women going through menopause appeared to be more likely to develop MDD than other women. Of course, there are several types of depression, but for the sake of this article, we’ll focus on MDD.
So, Does Menopause Cause Depression?
Actually, studies show that perimenopause is the worst culprit of the three stages of menopause (perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause). Two well-regarded studies indicated that the risk of developing a depressive disorder might be two to five times higher during perimenopause compared with the late premenopausal years. Although researchers are not certain why depression is more common during perimenopause, several key factors may apply.
These factors are:
Psychosocial Factors
If you are in any stage of menopause, you know that there is a psychological and social impact that can affect mental health.
Many may feel as though:
menopause or aging is a bad thing
it makes you less youthful or womanly
menopause symptoms affect their ability to work
they lack strong and consistent social support
they find that any little thing annoys them and sets them off
Physiological Factors
Perimenopause causes a woman’s hormone levels to change unpredictably. Interestingly enough, estrogen and progesterone may rise and fall while declining overall. These hormonal shifts can affect brain chemistry, structure, and function.
Also, serotonin and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that help regulate mood. When estrogen levels decline, this can affect the overall balance of these chemicals.
Some people may be more susceptible to hormone-related mood changes. A 2015 study reported that clinical depression during perimenopause may be more common in people with:
a personal or family history of depression
a history of premenstrual dysphoric disorder
a history of postpartum depression
However, the authors of the study wanted to make it clear that the risk of depression is higher in all women going through perimenopause, regardless of their personal or family history.
Other Health Factors to Consider
Menopause or perimenopause might not be the only reason for feeling depressed. There are other health-related factors to consider, including:
Having a chronic health condition.
Certain lifestyle choices such as smoking, a lack of physical activity, and consumption of alcohol.
Hysterectomies and partial hysterectomies can force women to enter menopause more quickly than they normally would. Not to mention the surgery and recovery itself may cause stress, and the road back to recovery can cause depression.
Where can I Find Help?
Your Doctor
Starting with your doctor is a good idea. They can run blood tests, discuss your family history, and help you decide on treatment. They may suggest selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for menopause-related mood changes. They work by changing neurotransmitter levels, which can, in turn, reduce the symptoms of depression. What about hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? A 2018 study showed that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve estrogen therapy to treat perimenopausal depression. However, this therapy does help reduce hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms that can ultimately affect your mood.
Your Therapist
Psychotherapy helps with identifying the factors contributing to depression. There might be more there than just a reaction to menopause. Family history, chemical imbalances, and more can also contribute to depression. They can also find ways to help you cope with these changes in your life. Also, do your research. Some therapists specialize in life stage changes, including menopause.
Corresponding Therapies
Although there is little research on therapies specifically for depression occurring during perimenopause, there are steps that anyone can take experiencing depression, menopause symptoms, or both:
When it’s Time to Seek Help
Often, depression is not an expected part of menopause or aging. We decide that our sudden lack of interest in life or feeling exhausted all the time is to be accepted and expected. However, anyone experiencing depression at this life stage should reach out for help immediately. Research and find a doctor or therapist who understands menopause and its potential effects on your mental health.
PLEASE NOTE: You should contact a doctor or mental health professional immediately if you are considering self-harm or suicide.
Conclusion
Even though studies link perimenopause and depression, the nature of the connection is not entirely clear to scientists. However, they do believe that hormonal fluctuations that women suffer from while experiencing perimenopause make them more vulnerable to depression.
There are several treatments available to manage depression and alleviate stress. Don’t just suffer through it...help is there when you’re ready.
Sources:
Timeless Youth Empowerment™, led by Dr. Faruqi, supports women over 40 and 50 to take control of their health, vitality, and aging journey. We provide education in hormonal balance, anti-aging strategies, and symptom relief for menopause and midlife changes. We address symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sleep issues, helping women regain energy, confidence, and a youthful glow by guiding women through midlife transitions with natural and medical solutions backed by science.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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