Menopause Effects On Mental Health: What To Expect & How To Deal With It

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Does menopause affect mental health?

Menopause is the term used to define the end of menstrual cycles. Menopause is diagnosed once a woman has not had a period for 12 months. It is a natural process that usually takes place in a woman in her 40s or 50s.

Although it is a normal process, like any other bodily change, one goes through a series of changes. Menopause for most women has physical and mental symptoms. In this article, we discuss the effects of menopause on women’s mental health.

What should be expected?

In terms of physical health, there are several changes that one experiences. Some of the most common symptoms leading to menopause are:

• Irregularity in periods
• sleep bad
• slow metabolism
• Weight gain
• Dry Skin
• Night sweats
• dryness in the vagina
• Shaking chills
• hair thinning
• Sudden sensations of feverish heat.

A woman may experience some, if not all, of these symptoms in the months and years after menopause.

In addition to these physical changes, women may also experience mental changes. These are some of the common symptoms that women approaching menopause may experience mentally.

1. Mood swings

Constant mood swings are very common during and before menopause. Although these mood swings are usually mild, it is essential to understand that they are completely normal.

2. Anxiety

Menopause can cause anxiety due to changes in hormone levels. The lack or excess of certain hormones can cause anxiety. Women may experience panic attacks during the transition.

3. Depression

Depression is one of the most common symptoms of menopause. One can feel low, worthless, agitated, etc. This can cause a change in appetite.

4. Fatigue

Fatigue is another very common symptom of menopause. Feeling tired and low on energy is normal and is due to hormonal changes.

5. Focus problem

Anxiety and depression can affect attention span and ability to concentrate. You may experience a lack of concentration.

6. Can we prevent these symptoms?

Although these mental symptoms are normal and common, you may want to prevent them. They may not be completely preventable, but small lifestyle changes can help reduce the severity of how long these symptoms last.

How can we prevent these symptoms?

Here are some simple ways through which you can reduce these symptoms:

1. Be prepared

Doing proper and sufficient research as you approach 40 can help you better understand your feelings. Sudden mood swings and lack of information can cause confusion.

2. Understand that it is normal

The first step in accepting your feelings is to understand that it is normal. Feeling guilty or anxious is normal and common, you should not feel alone.

3. Understand that it is temporary

Another great way to get through the menopause transition is to understand that your symptoms are normal. Just like physical changes, the emotions you feel are temporary.

4. Eat well

Eating healthy can help you feel better. Healthy foods also promote better physical health and reduce symptoms. Certain foods also help boost the production of happy hormones.

5. Train regularly

Working ours can also help reduce physical and mental symptoms. Exercising also helps with the proper production of happy hormones and can help you feel satisfied.

6. Try meditation

Meditating or trying yoga and breathing exercises can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Improving relationships with oneself and working toward mindfulness can help with the menopause transition.

7. Talk to someone

Ventilation has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Therapy or talking to a trusted person can help you release your feelings.

8. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol and other substances can help temporarily distract you, but can negatively affect your long-term physical and mental health. Alcohol is addictive and depressant and should be avoided.

9. Socialize

Keeping in touch with your friends and family can help you get through the transition. Seeking support is recommended and can help you better deal with your symptoms.

10. Engage in Doable Activities

Try to engage in activities that give you feelings of accomplishment. Whether trying out a new recipe or trying to learn a new instrument, such activities can help you feel satisfied and give you a sense of accomplishment.

It is essential to know what menopause is and what to expect. Understanding menopause can help you get through it smoothly. Seeking professional help for mental and physical symptoms is recommended.

Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.