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Women Unaware of Menopause Mental Health Risks
3 Mar
Summary
- Over 78% of women lack awareness about menopause's mental health effects.
- Oestrogen decline during menopause significantly impacts brain neurotransmitters.
- Menopause can unmask, worsen, or trigger new mental health conditions.
A significant gap in awareness exists regarding menopause's impact on mental health, with over 78% of women unaware of its potential effects. Oestrogen, a key hormone during menopause, also functions as a brain hormone, directly influencing mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Fluctuations or declines in oestrogen disrupt neurochemical stability, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, irritability, and brain fog.
These hormonal shifts can unmask or worsen existing mental health conditions and may even trigger new psychiatric symptoms, even in women with no prior history. Studies have indicated links between menopausal hormonal changes and increased risks of major depressive disorder and mania. Women with a history of postpartum depression, severe PMS, or PMDD are at a higher risk due to heightened sensitivity to hormonal shifts.
Medical professionals and public figures are calling for increased education and improved support for women experiencing menopause. They stress that menopause is a societal issue affecting over half the population, requiring a collective effort from healthcare providers, government, and the public. Seeking medical advice for menopausal symptoms is recommended, with options like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) available.
