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Menopause, Depression and Anxiety

Menopause can lead to many physical problems. And on top of that, it may also affect your mood, leaving you in a state of depression and anxiety. If you experience these mood disorders, there are treatments available.

  1. Hormones

    • The female hormones help balance certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, involved with the sense of pleasure or well being. The decline and fluctuation of these hormones during menopause can result in many types of mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood swings and panic disorder.

    Hormone Therapy

    • Hormone therapy can help restore hormonal balance as well as decrease many physical menopausal symptoms, which in turn improves the mood.

    Antidepressants

    • There are many types of antidepressants. Lexapro is commonly used in menopausal women, since it does not interfere with hormone levels. Some antidepressants, such as Effexor XR and Pristiq, are prescribed to treat both depression and hot flashes.

    Supplements for Better Mood

    • Dr. Holly Thacker, a women's health specialist and the author of "The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Menopause," recommends that women with menopausal mood disorders take vitamin B complex, folic acid, omega-3 acid and SAMe supplements.

    Psychotherapy

    • According to Dr. Thacker, many women found that cognitive behavioral therapy helped them lighten up and overcome negative thoughts. Some of them did not even have to use hormone therapy or antidepressants at all.

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