How Hormones Can Play a Major Role in Your Mental Health
- Timeless Youth
- Dec 6, 2024
- 4 min read
Is there a link between changes in hormonal conditions such as menopause and your mental health? Yes, there is. Several studies have been done that show a direct link between the two. However, your doctor or health professional might not see the connection. And depending on when you were born, you might have been raised to “suck it up” and, therefore, not take your depression seriously or follow up on possible treatments.
Your mental health is too important not to take notice! Depression, lethargy, anxiety, sleep deprivation.... all of these can wreak havoc on your relationships. Understanding that hormones play a key role in regulating bodily functions and can affect a person’s mood is vital. Then, you can find out how to balance and regulate hormone levels to help relieve hormonal-related depression.
Does Any of This Sound Like You?
I am depressed
I don’t feel like doing anything I did before because I’m exhausted
I feel anxious all the time
I keep snapping at people for no reason, and I can’t control it
I have no sex drive
Yes? Then keep reading.... there’s help on the way!
What Causes Hormonal Imbalances in Women?
There are a few causes for changes in hormone levels in women.
A few are:
Pregnancy
Perimenopause
Birth control medications
Low testosterone levels
Reduced levels of serotonin
What Hormones Are We Talking About?
Estrogen
Estrogen is a group of steroid hormones that promote the development and maintenance of female characteristics of the body. Such hormones are also produced artificially for use in oral contraceptives or to treat menopausal and menstrual disorders.
Progesterone
Progesterone is a hormone that plays an important role in your reproductive system. Hormones are chemical messengers that tell your body how to work. In women or people assigned female at birth (AFAB), Progesterone supports menstruation and helps maintain the early stages of a pregnancy.
Androgens
Androgens are the group of sex hormones that give men their 'male' characteristics. The major sex hormone in men is testosterone, which is produced mainly in the testes. However, women have testosterone as well, and lower levels can produce side effects such as a low libido and lack of drive and motivation.
How do I Know What Stage of Menopause I’m in?
Menopause is technically one day in a woman’s life that occurs 12 months after her last period. Afterward, women are considered postmenopausal. Before then, you’re in the perimenopause stage when reproductive hormones are shifting, which can make you more vulnerable to major depression. However, depression has been shown to occur in each stage. Also, if you’re not paying attention, you might not realize that you’ve shifted from one phase to the next.
What is Hormonal Related Depression?
According to Johns Hopkins, falling estrogen and progesterone levels can trigger mood swings that make you less able to cope with things you'd normally let roll off your back. For some, these hormonal dips can set off a depressive episode, especially for those who've suffered major depression in the past. Especially during perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fall.
How do I Know if it’s Hormonal Related Depression or Depression Caused by Something Else?
Actually, depression has the same symptoms, including:
Persistently feeling sad, anxious, or “empty”
A rise in irritability
Restlessness
Feeling hopeless or constantly pessimistic
No interest in usual activities or hobbies
Chronic fatigue
Inability to focus on tasks or conversations
Sudden appetite changes
Suicidal thoughts or attempts
According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, experiencing these symptoms every day for at least 2 weeks may indicate depression.
What if it Isn’t Hormonal Related Depression?
You can’t just assume that menopause is causing your depression or anxiety.
There are other common risk factors, including:
Changes in brain chemicals
Genetics where depression may run in families
High levels of stress
Exposure to neglect, abuse, violence, or poverty
Addictions, including alcohol and drugs
To diagnose depression, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, their frequency and duration, your family history, and how they affect your day-to-day life.
To diagnose hormonal conditions, your doctor will perform a physical exam and run blood tests to check hormone levels.
Treatments for Depression With Hormonal Approaches
If hormonal imbalances are identified, finding and treating them can be useful and lessen your symptoms of depression. Fortunately, there are several treatments available.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause but may include:
Antidepressants
Birth control pills for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
OTC pain relievers for physical symptoms related to depression, like headaches
Estrogen-based contraception, lower dose progesterone options, or nonhormonal contraception
Testosterone therapy
Lifestyle changes, including getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation techniques
Conclusion
Depression is highly treatable. The APA states that around 80–90% of people respond well to treatment over time. Don’t suffer. Be proactive and seek professional help today! You deserve to be happy.
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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