Menopause can be a significant transition for many people. It usually begins in the 40s or 50s and can last for several years. This transition can be a lengthy one and can cause major changes in your mental and physical health.
What Happens to Your Body During Menopause?
Menopause refers to a time when a woman who once had periods and may become pregnant stops having them. The body experiences many hormonal and physical changes during this time, which can affect both the mental and physical health of the individual.
People going through menopause can experience physical symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. They may also experience weight changes. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a person’s mental and physical health, as well as the quality of their life.
How can these changes affect your mental health?
While most people are aware of the physical changes associated with menopause, few understand how they affect mental health. Here are some mental health concerns and conditions that menopausal women may experience.
Depression
Sometimes, the dramatic hormonal changes during menopause can lead to mild depression. Anyone can experience this, regardless of whether they have ever had a history or not. The symptoms are typically mild, and severe cases are rare.
People with a history of depression may experience a worsening in their symptoms. This is particularly true for women whose moods are greatly affected by their periods before they reach menopause. Although hormonal changes can sometimes cause symptoms to worsen, other factors, such as aging, stress at work and career, and major life changes (such as juggling responsibilities and other major life changes), may also be involved.
Anxiety
It is not well understood what the connection is between anxiety and menopause. Many people can experience anxiety during this time. The relationship is complicated because anxiety and panic attacks often occur alongside hot flashes. Many menopausal women may mistakenly believe they are experiencing a panic attack, when in fact they are experiencing a hot flash.
People going through menopause may also experience many life changes that can lead to anxiety. Anxiety can be caused by aging parents, life changes, career or personal decisions, and the departure of children.
Worsening of Psychiatric Disorders and Other Mood Disorders
It has been proven that menopause and the hormonal changes that accompany it can lead to certain psychiatric disorders. People with bipolar disorder, for example, often experience worsening symptoms in their menopausal years.
Care for your mental health during menopause
Your physical health is one of the best ways you can care for your mental well-being during menopause. Your mental health can be improved by making healthy lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. People with mild depression, anxiety, and similar mental conditions often benefit from these lifestyle changes.
During this time, it is important to surround yourself with supportive and loving people. Regular socialization can make you feel happy and reduce the symptoms of mood disorders.
You should also have regular discussions with your doctor and a counselor at Anew Treatment Center if you are going through menopause. A doctor may be able to help with your physical symptoms but a counselor will be able to assist you in improving your mental health. If you have ever had mental health issues that are getting worse or if you suspect you may be developing schizophrenia, this is especially important.