Menopause is a natural process in a woman’s life that marks the end of menstruation. It occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and estrogen and progesterone levels decline. As women age, the hormone balance in their bodies also changes, which can lead to menopausal symptoms and many other health problems, including mental health issues that are often overlooked.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, fluctuations in hormone levels during menopause can lead to mood changes, including symptoms of depression. A study published in the North American Clinics of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2011 found that the risk of experiencing high levels of depression and mood disorders increases significantly during and after menopause. While everyone experiences mental health differently, Dr Nirmala M, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospital, Bangalore, advises that it is important to seek advice early if symptoms become noticeable. Here, we discuss in detail why and how to address mental health issues during menopause.
Read more: Early menopause: Understanding the health risks and symptoms to watch out for
Mental health issues and menopause
“Menopausal women often face a range of mental health issues, mainly due to hormonal changes,” Dr Nirmala said, adding that mood swings, irritability, anxiety and depression are commonly reported.
Some women may experience cognitive changes, such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating, which can be frustrating and lead to feelings of helplessness. Additionally, loss of fertility can cause psychological distress, especially for women whose identity is based on being a mother.
It’s also important to keep in mind that physical symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and sleep problems, can contribute to mental stress, and persistent irritability and fatigue can exacerbate stress, anxiety and mood disorders, the doctors added.
All of these issues can lead to mental health problems that require a strong support system and sometimes professional help.
The role of early counselling in menopause
Dr Nirmala says early counselling is important in addressing the emotional and psychological issues associated with menopause and helps women overcome mental issues before they become overwhelming.
“Menopause is a complex stage of life and early intervention can help women understand the changes they are experiencing and better manage symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings and depression,” she says, explaining how counselling creates a safe space to discuss emotional struggles, reduces feelings of isolation and provides practical tools to cope with stress.
For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help women manage mood swings, anxiety, and depression by challenging negative thought patterns and promoting healthier emotional responses. Therapists can also help women address self-esteem issues and the emotional impact of physical changes, and provide guidance on accepting this natural life transition. Counselling often includes relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and stress management strategies to control anxiety and sleep disorders.
Read more: Cervical Health in Your 20s, 30s, 40s and After Menopause: Explained
According to Medical News Today, early counseling and therapy can help people who:
Understand their feelings
Identifying issues that affect your mental health
Find a way to overcome it
Learn new skills and coping strategies
Set goals for personal growth
Learn more about mental health disorders
Signs that Mental Health Counselling is Necessary During Menopause
Certain mental health symptoms prompt women to seek counseling early in menopause. They include:
Mood swings
Feeling sad, depressed, anxious or irritable
Changes in sleep habits, such as insomnia or sleep disorders
Stress and fatigue
A sense of desperation filled the air.
Difficulty coping with daily life
Thoughts of self-harm
amnesia
Cognitive Fog
Feeling emotionally distant from loved ones
Why menopausal women need a strong support system
In addition to expert advice and support, a strong support system is also important in helping women manage mental health issues related to menopause.
Having a network of family, friends and medical professionals allows women to talk openly about their difficulties, reducing the sense of isolation and frustration that often accompanies this stage.
“Emotional support from loved ones can provide reassurance, normalise the experience and help reduce anxiety and sadness,” says Dr Nirmala. Peer support groups designed specifically for women going through menopause can also be beneficial, providing a shared understanding of the challenges and practical coping strategies.”
She concludes that a comprehensive support system can make a big difference in reducing stress, boosting self-esteem and ensuring women receive the mental care they need during this transition.
read more
Can a light period affect my fertility?
Disclaimer
