Residential Treatment for Women Suffering From Depression & Anxiety During Menopause

Some women experience depression and anxiety during menopause. Hormonal changes contribute to these problems. Lifestyle changes, such as children leaving home or retirement, can also contribute to anxiety and depression.

Hormones and Depression

• During menopause there is a drop in estrogen. This can lead to depression and anxiety, as well as a number of physical symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy can help with depression and anxiety, though it is not right for every woman.

When is Residential Treatment Appropriate?

• A woman needs residential treatment if she is unable to care for herself due to severe depression or if she is suicidal or otherwise a danger to herself. Doctors generally prefer to try outpatient treatment first, though.

Residential Treatment

• Residential treatment usually consists of a combination of medication, group therapy, individual therapy and family therapy. In addition, treatment includes hormone replacement therapy when appropriate.

Where to Get Residential Treatment

• Most people in need of residential treatment for depression or anxiety get treatment in psychiatric units of general hospitals or in private psychiatric hospitals. People who need long-term treatment get care in halfway houses, group homes or state psychiatric hospitals.

Paying for Residential Treatment

• Most health insurance companies pay for residential treatment for depression and anxiety when it is medically necessary. Both Medicare and Medicaid cover residential treatment, too. For women without any insurance, many hospitals have funds available to help cover the cost of residential treatment for those that cannot afford it.