The body is not the only thing that changes during menopause. Many women struggle with mental health disorders that are related to menopause. Depression and anxiety disorders are common for women in perimenopause and menopause for a variety of reasons. At FEM Women’s Wellness in Reno, NV, we offer therapy and support for women undergoing mental health changes related to menopause.
Menopause is defined as the period when a women’s body stops producing estrogen and her menstrual cycles come to a halt. When 12 months of missed periods occur due to the stop of estrogen production, this is when menopause occurs. The changes in the hormone levels affect the body physically and can also impact the mind.
Menopause Symptoms and Mental Health
Some of the symptoms of menopause mimic signs of mental health disorders. It can be tricky to know if what you are feeling is only a side effect of your hormonal changes or whether it is a more serious mental health condition. Mental health issues can be overlooked during menopause which can lead to more serious consequences. Some of the symptoms of menopause that can be related to mental health include:
- Mood swings – It is normal to have irritability and mood swings during menopause. However, when sadness or anger are consistent, it may be more than just a hormonal reaction.
- Depression disorders are common among women going through menopause.
- Feeling hopeless or useless – Crying or feeling sad occasionally are natural menopause lows. When you feel these ways more often than not, it can be a sign of mental health issues.
- Hot flashes and heart palpitations – Sweaty, hot flashes with a racing heart can occur during menopause, similar to panic attacks. If you also experience fear, worry and shortness of breath, you may have an anxiety disorder.
Mental health can be strained during menopause. Women who have previously experienced depression or anxiety disorders are more likely to have reoccurrence of symptoms during menopause, but anyone can experience mental health disorders linked to menopausal changes. When mental health menopause symptoms are consistent and last for two weeks or more, it is a sign you should seek treatment.
Treatments for Menopausal Mental Health Issues
Seeking mental health support during menopause can help you live a healthier and happier life. At FEM Women’s Wellness, we individualized treatment plans that can support mental health issues related to menopause. Our experienced GYN providers are NAMS certified and experienced with Hormonal Replacement Treatment which can help to lay the ground work to support changes during menopause that may impact your mental health. Our team works collaboratively to ensure you are treated as a whole person and you do not need to go through this time alone. Contact our mental health team at our clinic in the Carson City and Reno, NV, area to schedule an appointment.