Overcoming Menopausal Depression

Most women who are on the onset of menopause suffer from depression. Although there is an absence of a solid scientific explanation between the hormonal level of a woman experiencing menopause and the feeling of depression that accompanies such, the onset of depression for women who have attained a certain age, specifically during the menopause years, is undeniable. Scientific findings set aside; experts acknowledged that the prevalence of depression for menopause women is quite apparent.



What are the common symptoms of menopausal depression?

Depression identified with menopause generally occurs during that stage before the actual menopause, medically referred to as perimenopause. Studies have shown that the depression felt by menopausal women are no different from the depression experienced by any normal individual. Depression may be marked by any, a combination of or all the following instances:

- Feeling drained

- Showing listlessness in any kind of activity

- Lack or loss in sexual appetite

- Constant feeling of despair mixed with anxiety, pessimism

- Feeling empty, incapable, worthless

- Difficulty focusing and remembering things

- Becoming indecisive and passive

- Mood changes such as irritability

- Sleeping problems

- Becoming a hypochondriac

What are the Causes of Menopausal Depression?
A lot of factors may contribute to the depression of a woman during her menopause. Events or issues that they are encountering in their personal life may trigger this. They may be attributed, but not limited to, the following concerns - physical health, career, children, or partner.

Concerns such as the inability to no longer bear a child, grown-up children moving away, or career choices, among others, tend to pile up and leave the menopausal woman feeling depressed.

There is a Way to Beat Depression
The menopausal woman can lift herself from the depths of depression, and in some instances, with the assistance of other people. Beginning with yourself, you can start by taking up a hobby that you are truly interested in. Change your lifestyle if needed, it is never too late to do so anyway. Establish and follow an exercise regimen that you can do daily so that you will feel active and alive. Find time to relax and enjoy. Plan a healthy diet that you can follow. Sleep well at night, preferably 6 to 8 hours.

If you think you need someone to overcome depression, then go out and look for a support group. Try to spend some quality time with your friends and laugh with them. If you think the situation is more serious than you can handle, seek professional help.

Is Taking Medications an Option?
There are a number of medications, herbal or otherwise, available for depressed women during menopause. Finding the appropriate one for you may be a tough choice. There are anti-depressants, hormone or estrogen therapy, and psychotherapy. It is best that you consult a doctor first before buying and taking any over-the-counter medication or anti-depressants. The same advice should be heeded in case you want to try alternative remedies such as therapies. A doctor is in a better position to evaluate your situation. The importance of seeking the appropriate treatment for depression cannot be overemphasized.