Menopause brings hormonal changes that can impact mental health. Additionally, the physical symptoms experienced during this time may also affect a person’s emotional well-being.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural stage when menstrual periods permanently stop. The period leading up to menopause, called perimenopause or the menopausal transition, involves changes in menstrual cycles and the onset of various symptoms.
This article explores the mental health challenges some people face during the menopausal transition, how physical symptoms might influence mental well-being, strategies for managing mental health, and when to seek medical advice.
Note on Language:
You may notice that research studies often use binary terms like “male” and “female” or “men” and “women” when reporting data. While inclusive language is preferred generally, precision is necessary when discussing research findings.
Mental Health Symptoms During Menopause
Each individual’s experience of menopause is unique, and not everyone will have the same mental health symptoms. However, common mental health changes during the menopausal transition can include:
- Mood changes: Increased irritability or mood swings
- Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, guilt, or worthlessness
- Anxiety: Feelings of panic, fear, worry, or tension
A 2023 systematic review found that menopause can increase vulnerability to anxiety and depression, possibly due to estrogen fluctuations affecting brain chemicals like GABA and serotonin, which regulate mood and emotions.
Social factors also play a role. For example, in many heterosexual relationships, women typically carry the majority of childcare and household duties. The added physical symptoms of menopause may increase stress and impact mental health.
Changes in caregiving roles—such as children moving out or caring for aging relatives—can also affect emotional well-being during this time.
Physical Symptoms and Their Impact on Mental Health
Menopause-related physical symptoms may contribute to mental health changes. Common examples include:
- Hot flashes: Sudden heat waves, especially at night, can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, and low mood.
- Vaginal dryness: Lower estrogen causes dryness and thinning of vaginal tissue, which may lead to painful intercourse and anxiety.
- Reduced libido: Decreased sex drive during menopause can cause feelings of anxiety or distress.
- Sleep problems: Insomnia or early waking can worsen mood and irritability.
- Urinary issues: Problems with bladder control and frequent infections may increase anxiety and frustration.
- Body changes: Loss of muscle, increased body fat, skin dryness, and joint pain can negatively affect self-esteem and body image.
A 2023 review suggests menopausal symptoms are linked to more negative perceptions of body image.
Managing Mental Health During Menopause
Here are some strategies to support mental well-being during menopause:
- Consult a mental health professional: Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been shown to help.
- Seek support: Talk with trusted friends or family members.
- Communicate with partners: Discuss sexual health and intimacy openly.
- Adopt healthy habits: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can improve mood and energy.
- Join support groups: Online or in-person communities can offer valuable connection.
For physical symptoms, healthcare providers may suggest treatments such as:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Birth control pills
- Antidepressants
- Gabapentin
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)
- Vaginal lubricants
It may take time to find the right combination of therapies and lifestyle changes.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience new or worsening mental health symptoms during menopause, consult a healthcare professional. They can help tailor treatments and provide resources to address both physical and emotional symptoms.
Seek emergency help immediately if you experience severe symptoms such as suicidal thoughts.
Summary
- Menopause can bring mood changes, anxiety, and depression.
- Physical symptoms may also affect mental health and self-esteem.
- Support from loved ones, professional therapy, and medical treatments can help manage symptoms.
- Contact a healthcare provider if mental health symptoms arise or worsen during menopause.
