Mood Changes in Women
The stereotype is true. Perimenopause and menopause mess with a woman’s moods. Unfortunately, if your moods are out of kilter, everyone comes along for the ride.
Common Mood Changes
Mood Swings are simply abrupt changes in mood. One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying. Calm one minute…angry the next.
Depression means feeling down for an extended period of time. Women who are depressed may feel less interested in the things they used to enjoy.
Anxiety may leave you feeling edgy, nervous, worried, and overwhelmed.
Irritability can translate to feeling impatient, grouchy, and easily frustrated.
Causes of Mood Changes
Serotonin and Estrogen
Serotonin is a mood-regulating neurotransmitter, but your body needs estrogen to make it. When estrogen levels drop during menopause, serotonin also drops.
Other Hormones
Progesterone is calming and acts as a natural anti-depressant. Testosterone is mood elevating when present at healthy levels. And being thyroid deficient can cause depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Other Symptoms
The emotional distress caused by other symptoms like hot flashes and weight gain can also cause mood issues.
Treatment for Mood Changes
Living with unstable moods during perimenopause and menopause is miserable. Neither you, nor those close to you, should have to suffer through this kind of turmoil. Let’s find some solutions together.