Menopause and Depression

Posted on: 27 May 2011 | Comments: 0

Author: iMensies Editors

A lot of times when women get older and approach menopause they have an increased risk of having a depression. It is thought that depression is not directly caused by menopause, however both may occur at the same time. The reason for the depression, as believed by many scientists, is the change in the estrogen levels which happen as a woman goes through menopause. Women at this age have twice as much risk of having a depression than men and the risk is higher for women that have a family history of depression.

Menopause and depression share a lot of very similar symptoms that include hot flashes, fatigue, irritability, anxiety and sleep disorders. These symptoms are associated with menopause by many women, but they also could be the signs of depression that needs to be understood. There is no need to suffer from these symptoms if there were brought by a mere depression. It is important to recognize what is caused by menopause itself and what is caused by depression. Both can be dealt with and a lot of times can be completely separate and mutually exclusive conditions.

When women start approaching their menopause, the menstrual cycle changes and becomes unpredictable. The cause of unpredictability is linked to the changes in ovulation that becomes unpredictable as well. Erratic ovulation leads to irregular release of various hormones which in turn results in forgetfulness, mood swings, hot flashes and many other menopause related symptoms.

Depression can occur when women, going through menopause, feel that they loose control of their bodies, when in fact it is nothing more than a general reaction to the aging process. As the symptoms of depression or menopause become worse women may feel that there is nothing they can do to stop this and the feelings of hopelessness take over. It is important to recognize, however, that this feeling of hopelessness is a major symptom of depression as well and should be treated to avoid a more severe depression.

Treatments for depression and menopause are available and should consider both conditions at the same time. Treatment of depression is important and can be achieved through counseling as well as by taking antidepressants. However, menopause symptoms should be treated at the same time. Menopause treatments may include hormone replacement therapy which substitutes estrogen and progesterone with synthetic forms with the idea of maintaining the woman's hormone levels.

If you are approaching midlife and menopause keep in mind that depression may be a real and serious symptom of the aging process. If you start feeling the symptoms of depression consult with your physician about the treatment options that may be available to you.

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