Depression is one of the most devastating symptoms of perimenopause. Unfortunately, most women do not even recognize depression for what it is. It doesn’t help that people around them are also unable to identify depression and misunderstand symptoms.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of depression in menopause include decreased interest in activities, lack of appetite, loss of energy, thoughts of suicide, feelings of guilt, extreme irritability and feelings of worthlessness. Many women suffer these symptoms needlessly as they believe that these discomforts are a natural process of aging.

Connection between menopause and depression

Menopaue and DepressionThere is a connection between menopause and depression. Most women may not realize it but hormonal changes trigger depression during menopause. Estrogen imbalance heightens symptoms of depression. Additionally, perimenopause creates hormonal imbalances in the body which manifests as stress. Stress affects mental function, which is why many women feel confused and disoriented by what is happening to them. This confusion exacerbates the feeling of depression.

Other causes of depression in menopausal women

Often, women nearing the age of menopause are burdened with stress. Typically, their profile could include growing children, difficult workplace and caring for aging parents. When too many roles have to be juggled, it leads to toxic stress.  Toxic stress leads to further imbalance in hormones, which in turn contributes to mood swings or depression.

When depression occurs, the body is depleted of serotonin, which is essential to maintain a positive state of mind.

Treatment of menopausal depression

Menopausal Depression TreatmentFortunately, menopause related depression is treatable. A holistic treatment method must be adopted to help women get over this dark phase. Some of the most important components of such a treatment method would include therapy through medication, exercise, dietary changes, changes in lifestyle factors and sufficient support from loved ones.

Depression caused by menopause should not be allowed to sabotage a woman’s life. It is natural to feel listless and without hope but when proactive action is taken, the process of recovery begins. 

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Filed under: Menopause Symptoms

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