On average, women will spend 40-50% of their life in a menopausal stage. As recognition of this time has increased, so has research into how to help women navigate this area, including corresponding mental health issues such as depression.
Perimenopausal time (or the time around menopause) begins when a woman’s menstrual cycle becomes irregular or when other menopause symptoms start to appear (Crandall, 2019) and continues until after a woman has experienced menopause. During this time, many factors can cause disruptions in a woman’s life, including lifestyle changes, changes in metabolism, changes in sex hormones, and other aspects of health, including depression.
The medical community is still studying menopause-associated depression, but it is increasingly an area of concern. During the menopausal period, there is a higher risk for women to experience depressive symptoms (45-70%) when compared to the premenopausal period (25-30%), and higher rates for those with a history of depression.
Signs of Menopause-Associated Depression
It’s important that women get evaluated by a professional to determine a diagnosis of depression, but here are some signs to start looking for:
- Overwhelming Feelings of Sadness
- Diminished Pleasure
- Changes in Weight
- Sleep Issues
- Changes in Behavior
- Feelings of Worthless
- Thoughts of Death and/or Suicide
The best course of action for women experiencing depressive symptoms is to talk with a mental health professional in collaboration with a medical provider. A mental health professional can assess your symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, and provide counseling support to improve your symptoms. A medical provider can help women look into medication treatment options, such as antidepressants (SSRI or SSNI), that can also help to improve symptoms. Medication takes time to become effective, so speaking with a mental health professional is encouraged while finding the medication that works best during this time. Counseling and medication treatment for depression can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life during menopause.
Additional options exist to help menopausal women begin to enjoy this part of their lives. Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment that helps alleviate symptoms. Talking with your medical provider or connecting with The Menopause Society can provide education about bodily changes during this time and other tools/resources to support menopausal women. These options and resources allow women to feel like they are growing with their bodies instead of feeling dragged along and stuck in their feelings.
Depression is a clinical diagnosis that can be overwhelming and life-threatening. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, please contact a medical or mental health professional. If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for immediate help at your nearest hospital or by calling 988.
If you would like some support in navigating menopause-associated depression or this life transition, please reach out to one of our specialized professionals today.
References:
- Crandall, C. J. (2019). Menopause practice: A clinician’s guide. North American Menopause Society.
