While many experience things like hot flushes, insomnia, fatigue, night sweats, headaches and weight gain, the menopause can also affect your mental health. Some of the most common symptoms of the menopause are physical. However, we want to be clear that this blog is inclusive of everyone who experiences menopausal symptoms as a result of hormonal changes. Throughout this blog, we use the term ‘woman’. That’s why it’s so important to talk about the impact it can have on us, not just physically, but also personally, professionally and mentally. Many women going through menopause are still working and living active and independent lives. This usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can occur earlier or later in some women. If you haven’t had a period for 12 months, you are said to be in menopause. The menopause is a biological stage that women go through when their periods stop and they are no longer able to get pregnant naturally. There might be Menopause Cafes or social media groups that allow you to listen to other women’s stories, and to share your own.Page medically reviewed by Dr Donna Grant (BSc, MBBS, MRCPsych) Consultant Psychiatrist at Priory Hospital Chelmsford. Speaking to other women online or in real life about the physical changes you’re experiencing can also help. Mindful breathing exercises and yoga can also really help. Finding time for a cup of tea, to read a book, go outside for walk, gardening or go online can give you a break from the pressures of life. If you can, try to remember to take time for yourself too. It can be difficult to find time for yourself when you are juggling a busy life, working and supporting family members, friends or children. The menopause can feel like a big change physically and mentally for many women, so it’s important to give yourself the time and space you need to work through these changes. Some of the physical changes that women can experience as they go through menopause can affect the way they feel about themselves, their confidence and self-esteem. If you think you or someone close to you might be suffering from depression, you should speak to your GP.įurther information about depression Physical changes and impacts Menopause can cause an increased risk of depression. Depression is a more serious condition, where very low mood is more constant for longer periods of time. You might experience mood changes as a result of menopause, but this should not be confused with depression. There are lots of helpful and free resources that can help you get active and feel good, including yoga, mindfulness and walking.įurther information about the treatment options available Depression Treatments can include:Įating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can help to improve some menopausal symptoms. Everyone is different so it’s about choosing what’s right for you. There are various treatments that you might want to consider to help relieve some of the psychological impacts of menopause. Speak to your local GP practice and they can provide you with the right support and help. It’s important to realise that the mental symptoms of menopause are as real as the physical ones, and you should not wait to seek help if you are struggling. Some women have been prescribed anti-depressants to help with the mental health-related symptoms during the menopause, but unless you have been diagnosed with depression there are other treatment options that are more appropriate. There are lots of different options that can help you with these experiences and improve your mental health and wellbeing during the menopause. Addressing problems with sleep may help you manage some of the mental health symptoms you can experience due to menopause.
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