Women experiencing perimenopause encounter distinct challenges that can impact their mental and emotional well-being. During this transitional phase leading up to menopause, they are 40 percent more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms compared to women who are still premenopausal.
Key Points to Note:
- Perimenopause is the roughly 10-year period during which a woman’s hormone levels begin to fluctuate before menstruation ceases entirely.
- A recent study discovered that women in the perimenopausal stage have a 40 percent higher risk of depression compared to premenopausal women.
- There is no increased risk of depression for postmenopausal women.
Mood changes caused by fluctuating hormone levels can be a symptom of perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause in a woman’s life.
A major new study has revealed that these emotional and mental health challenges can be quite severe, with the risk of depression rising by 40 percent.
“Depressive symptoms are very common during this stage of life,” senior author Roopal Desai, PhD, a research fellow in the department of clinical educational and health psychology at University College London in England, said. ”Hopefully our study will encourage women to feel more comfortable to talk about it and access appropriate help and support.”
The findings, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, were derived from a comprehensive analysis of data from seven studies that included over 9,000 women worldwide. These participants, aged between 35 and 50 at the study’s inception, were followed for periods ranging from 3 to 30 years.
Researchers assessed depressive symptoms using standardized self-reported evaluations, which considered factors like a diminished interest in activities, sleep disturbances, and persistent low mood.
Interestingly, the study found no heightened risk of depression in postmenopausal women when compared to their premenopausal counterparts.
Emotional States Change As the Body Changes
For Fatima Naqvi, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Atlantic Health System in Clark, New Jersey, this recent analysis adds to the growing body of evidence that suggests women may face increased susceptibility to serious mental and emotional health issues during the perimenopausal transition.
Dr. Naqvi emphasizes that the hormonal fluctuations characteristic of this stage can significantly impact a woman’s mental well-being, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and proactive management of these potential health challenges. She points out that recognizing and addressing these symptoms early can play a crucial role in mitigating their severity and improving overall quality of life for women undergoing this transition. Additionally, she advocates for further research to explore effective interventions and support mechanisms that can help women navigate this critical period with better mental and emotional health outcomes.
“This research validates what many women have been feeling for a long time — something may be going on with our bodies that is causing depressive episodes,” Dr. Naqvi said. She was not part of the study recently made.
Perimenopause Vs. Menopause
Perimenopause, which literally means “around menopause,” refers to the transitional period leading up to menopause. This stage encompasses the years before a woman reaches menopause, a milestone marked by 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period due to reasons other than health issues. Once this 12-month period has passed, a woman is considered to be in post-menopause.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s mid-forties, about 8 to 10 years before menopause. During this phase, fluctuating hormone levels can lead to changes in menstrual flow and cycle length.
The symptoms of perimenopause can be varied and often disruptive. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, which can cause significant discomfort. Headaches and trouble sleeping are also frequent complaints, adding to the overall strain on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. Mood changes are another hallmark of this period, influenced by the hormonal upheaval that characterizes perimenopause. Women may experience increased irritability, anxiety, and even depressive symptoms, making it a challenging time that requires comprehensive care and understanding.
Given the broad range of symptoms and their impact on daily life, it is important for women to seek medical advice and support during perimenopause. Healthcare providers can offer strategies to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and ensure a smoother transition into menopause and beyond.
“Menopause isn’t just a sudden event at age 50; it’s a gradual evolution of our bodies. We’re not the same at 25 as we are at 45,” Naqvi said. “When we hit our forties, it’s the decade of change. While exceptions exist, many of us are dealing with numerous stressors — caregiving, family responsibilities, chronic medical conditions, and societal pressures. This is a crucial decade where patients are urged to pay attention to their health.”
Although this recent study did not explore the specific reasons why menopausal changes might lead to depression, Dr. Desai suggests that hormonal imbalances and fluctuations could directly influence a person’s emotional state. Additionally, physical changes such as night sweats may indirectly contribute to mood deterioration by disrupting sleep and causing overall discomfort. These disruptions can lead to increased fatigue and stress, further exacerbating feelings of depression and emotional instability during the menopausal transition.
How to Avoid Depression as Much as Possible
The study authors emphasized the importance of early screening and treatment for depression in women during midlife. They concluded that addressing mental health proactively during this transitional period is crucial for improving overall well-being.
A combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions can significantly alleviate depression symptoms. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, effective stress management techniques, and, when necessary, the use of antidepressants, are all recommended strategies to enhance mental health.
In addition to these recommendations, related research recently published in the Journal of Affective Disorders by Desai and her colleagues highlighted the efficacy of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating the non-physical symptoms of menopause. These therapeutic approaches can help women manage the emotional and psychological challenges associated with this life stage.
Dr. Naqvi strongly encourages women to openly discuss any feelings of depression with their healthcare providers. She underscores the importance of not dismissing these feelings, as timely intervention can lead to better management of symptoms and an improved quality of life during perimenopause and beyond. This proactive approach allows for a comprehensive care plan tailored to each woman’s unique needs, ensuring that mental health is given the attention it deserves alongside physical health.
“Nothing beats having a conversation with your doctor — whether it’s your family doctor or gynecologist,” she said. “You need someone you can connect with to understand what you’re feeling and explore treatment options — or simply validate your experiences.”