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Is There a Relationship Between Menopause & Depression?

Menopause refers to the period in your life when your menstrual periods stop and your body goes through a number of changes. Approximately 8 to 15 percent of women experience depression related to menopause, according to Epigee.

  1. Causes

    • During menopause, the levels of estrogen in your body decrease. As levels of this hormone decline, your body goes through emotional and neurological effects as well as the hallmark symptoms of menopause like hot flashes and insomnia.

    Time Frame

    • Depression during menopause usually develops one to two years before menopause, in the period known as perimenopause, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of depression during menopause include two or more weeks of a persistent sad mood, changes in appetite, sleeping more or less than usual, impaired concentration, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, extreme irritability and thoughts of self-harm or suicide, according to the University of Michigan Depression Center.

    Risks

    • Untreated, depression caused by menopause can increase your risk of developing heart disease or osteoporosis, cautions the University of Michigan Depression Center.

    Treatment

    • Medications like antidepressants or supplements for estrogen may help alleviate your symptoms of depression during menopause. Therapy and support groups also contribute to recovery from depression.

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