Menopause is an inevitable occurrence in every woman’s life. Menopause is said to have
reached when a woman’s monthly periods have not occurred for one year. It typically
happens when a woman nears 50 years of age but can occur earlier too. However, the
hormonal changes that herald menopause start two to three years before the periods cease.
It’s a time of great turmoil for the female’s body and is accompanied by several physical as
well as psychological changes. While the physical changes are more commonly known, there
is little awareness about the psychological and emotional impact of menopause. These
changes can begin many months prior to the physical changes and persist for some time
after cessation of menses.-p-=
Possible causes for emotional problems in peri-menopause:
– The hormonal changes that accompany menopause are known to cause mild symptoms of
depression or anxiety. Fall in level of female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone)
trigger these symptoms
– Negative attitude towards menopause or ageing can cause emotional distress. Since
menopause signifies the end of child bearing days, this can adversely impact some females
psychologically.
– This time period in a woman’s life can be associated with other stressors like dealing with
grown up children, caring for ageing/ailing parents or in laws, empty nest syndrome due to
children leaving home etc.
– At this age other medical issues can be setting in like thyroid hormone disturbances or
onset of hypertension, diabetes etc.
– Many times, family members may be unaware of the turmoil the patient is suffering from
or the source of the problem. This can result in lack of support from family members.
Psychological symptoms associated with peri-menopause:
– Ladies may experience sleep disturbances triggered or increased by hot flushes.
– Mood changes such as unexplained bouts of sadness or low mood, irritability, mood
swings, feeling tense or worried over trivial issues. Low motivation and dullness can occur
accompanied by fatigue and body ache.
– Cognitive symptoms like brain fog, poor concentration, forgetfulness and reduced work
productivity.
– In some cases, syndromic depression or anxiety disorder can also occur. Few patients
suffer from panic attacks too.
Many women suffering from above symptoms are often unaware that menopause is the
cause.
How to manage these symptoms?
Making lifestyle changes is the first step to be taken. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is
important. It is important to follow proper sleep hygiene to ensure adequate sleep. Regular
exercise is a must. Moderate intensity exercise for 25-30 minutes at least 4-5 times a week
helps in alleviating the physical as well as mental symptoms. Strength training twice a week
should be included. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga or chanting helps
reduce baseline stress level. Joining a support group (physical or online) often helps women
share their experience and offers psychological support.
In case of severe symptoms, it is better to contact a gynaecologist who can suggest
treatment like low dose hormone replacement therapy or a psychiatrist for appropriate
medication.
