Menopausal Depression

Symptoms

Feelings such as tension,anxiety,depression,listlessness,irritability,tearfulness and mood swings can oocur at any age, but they rarely occur together or as frequently as they do during the menopause

If your are experiencing several negative feelings simultaneously,it may be helpful to know that the menopause is the reason

For many women,menopausal mood changes resemble a roller coaster ride

Women describe subtle sensations such as trembling,fluttering,unease and discomfort.More severe feelings of anxiety or panic can arise with little provocation.Tasks that you used to be able to tackle can leave you in total disray.Mood swings from elation to despondancy are common.Your patience is easily exhausted.The future may look hopeless,your loss of self-esteem is precipitous and you may feel truly depressed

Causes & Solutions

The centres in the brain that control a sense of wellbeing,a positive state of mind and a feeling of control and tranquility are affected by the absence of estrogen.Taking estrogen supplements as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can cause dramatic return to normality.For some women,the emotional troubles they experience around the menoapause may mainly be due to the fact that their sleep is being interrupted by night sweats.People who are tired are often irritable and anxious.If you are experiencing this problem,try self-help tips for promoting sleep.A major depression,although rare,can descend upon you during your menopausal years,and this is distinct from other emotional symptoms that you may experience,such as tearfulness and anxiety

There are possible predictors of depression during the menopause

a past of recent history of stressful events such as divorce or bereavement.A surgical-induced menopause.Having negative expectations of menopause.Severe hot flushes or night sweats.A family history of depressive illness.Empty nest syndrome

Depression can be a debilitating illness that can last for weeks,months or even years if left untreated.It affects your body,your mood,your thoughts and severely interferes with normal life.As a woman,you are most likely to experience depression than a man is. Consult your doctor if you have experienced x4 of the symptoms for at least 2weeks.Any extreme eating patterns,such as bingeing or loss of apetite.Unusual sleeping patterns,such as sleeping all the time or insomnia.Being exceptionally lethargic or restless. An inability to enjoy a once pleasurable activity,including a loss of sex drive.Debilitating fatique or loss of energy.Feelings of worthlessness and self-reproach.Difficulty concentrating,remebbering and making decisions.Thoughts of death or suicide,or suicide attempts - seek help straight away

Complementary Therapies

Herbs that my have a calming effect are passion flower andf valerian root taken as a tea or a tincture.Passion flower helps with insomnia and elevates the levels of serotonin in the blood,which creates a feeling of well-bieng.A herbal bath can also be therapeutic

Self-help

Severe mood swings and irritablility can distance you from your partner and occasionaly can jeopardize a relationship.However,if you share your feelings you may find your partner is very supportive.Several studies show that partners are keen to understand menopausal symptoms and would prefer to have insight into potential problems before the onset of menopause.Women who go to self-help groups may be better able to deal with depression.think about joining such a group or starting one yourself. 20-30 min of strenuous exercise results in the release of endorphins,which are brain opioids similar to morphine.This can lift mood and produce an 'exercise high' that lasts up to eight hours.Exercise can also reduce hot flushes and night sweats,which is helpful if these are the root cause of your depression.Yoga,relaxation techniques and meditation all promote tranquillity and combat anxiety and tension

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info source:

Dr Mirriam Stoppard - Family Health Guide