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Treatment for Depression and Weight Gain in Menopause

Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs among women and is sometimes accompanied by depression and weight gain. There are various conventional and alternative treatments available to treat these conditions during menopause.

  1. Definition

    • Menopause is associated with physical, hormonal and psychological changes; women may experience these signs and symptoms in their 40s and 50s. Technically, you have reached menopause if you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months.

    Depression

    • Treatments for depression include prescribed antidepressants, as well as hormone-replacement therapy, which helps make up for the fact that your body is no longer naturally producing estrogen. Alternative treatments include herbal remedies and dietary supplements such as ginseng to improve mood and GABA, which "calms" nerve signals.

    Weight Gain

    • When it comes to weight gain, some women turn to supplements such as N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), which helps build muscle and promotes fat burning; magnolia capsules, which contain honokiol, a phytochemical that aids in weight management and appetite control; and CLA, which can improve your ratio of fat-to-lean body mass.

    Other Therapies

    • Other therapies for both weight gain and depression include dietary changes, exercise, meditation and deep breathing, guided imagery, yoga, support groups, and speaking with a trained professional such as a psychologist, clinical nurse or social worker.

    Warning

    • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbal remedies and dietary supplements. As a result, there is little or no uniformity in types of ingredients and dosing instructions.

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