|  | Family Health | Womens Health

Menopause & Anger

Menopause is a time of fluctuating hormones. Some might compare it to being in a near constant state of premenstrual syndrome. There are those lucky women whose symptoms are minimal and don't disrupt their life. But for the other less- fortunate females, who have every menopausal symptom that exists, it can be an exasperating time. When hormones are fluctuating wildly, this can have a bearing on your mental state and you may find yourself mad and angry as hell.

  1. Hormones

    • Estrogen and progesterone are the vital female sex hormones that have prompted puberty and enabled a woman to have a healthy reproductive life. Testosterone, the male hormone, is also present in women and plays an important role. When estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels dip during peri-menopause or, conversely, get too high, this can affect the serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is the chemical that manipulates mood, according to the Center for Menstrual Disorders & Reproductive Choice. When serotonin drops, so does your mood.

    Considerations

    • Menopause is a time of great physical change for a woman. It may also be a difficult time in her life because of outside influences. She may still be raising children while taking care of elderly and infirm parents, working full-time, possibly acting in the role of single parent or in the process of divorcing. She may be struggling with other age-related health issues. These factors can cause stress, which can erupt in anger.

    Suppressed Anger and Its Consequences

    • According to Dana Crowley Jack, Ed.D, a psychologist at Fairhaven College at Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington, a link between unexpressed anger in women and depression has been made. When women get mad, they get especially mad, she points out. They rant, rage, seethe and usually direct their anger at their loved ones. Anger isn't necessarily a bad thing and can even be constructive but it needs to be used productively, to solve or remedy problems and issues. Suppressed anger can result in heart attacks and high blood pressure as well as gastrointestinal issues, according to the fall 1998 Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Some women have suppressed their rage and anger their entire lives. When menopause strikes, many find that they are more out-spoken and are apt to let their friends and family members know exactly how they feel.

    The Benefits of Exercising

    • If you are experiencing anger and rage, consider exercising because it stimulates endorphins, which are hormones that reduce the sensation of emotions, such as anger, lessens physical pain and increases serotonin levels. Exercise will help control weight, improve sleep and keep your system in balance, according to the website Menopause Bleeding.

    Pay Attention to Your Diet

    • Consider what you are eating. Diet can have a big impact on your emotions. Eat foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein and limit sugar, carbohydrates and caffeine. Consider supplementing your diet with amino acid because it is known to reduce depression and anxiety and is considered a natural relaxant. It increases serotonin levels.

Womens Health - Related Articles