Menopause Depression

For many women, menopause is a difficult life event physically and emotionally. It is not surprising that this major change in a woman’s life, and possibly even a major change in her self-image, can lead to menopause depression. Depending on a woman’s genetics, health, and lifestyle menopause generally will take place in her late 40s or in her 50s. Unfortunately, this is a time when many other drastic life changes may be occurring. This is typically about the time when her children are going off to college or getting their own families. For the career woman, this may also be a time of major career change or career regrets. With all of this going on at once, menopause depression is completely understandable.

Of course the most obvious emotional reason for menopause depression is a woman coming to realize that she is no longer going to be able to give birth. A lot of a woman’s identity may be wrapped up in her fertility. Many women must mourn this change in life and even adjust to a completely new self-perception. It is helpful if the woman suffering menopause depression is able to find new purposes for her life.

Losing the ability to bear children at the same time the children she has are leaving the home seems like a cruel concurrence of events. Her previous purpose may have been tied mostly in her children and now they have their own lives to live and she has no more chance at children. In order to avoid menopause depression, such a woman must look for the positives. She will have a lot more time and a lot less stress. Spoiling grandchildren is great. Sometimes it is nice to be able to see children and not be immersed in them. If careers are not in the way, it is an excellent opportunity for her and her husband to rediscover the time they once enjoyed together.

It cannot be overlooked that this is not simply a state of mind. Hormonal changes in the body can be just as responsible for menopause depression. If the depression lasts for more than a couple months or becomes unbearably severe, a doctor should be consulted. There are treatments for hormone problems that can be administered that can relieve depression.

Menopause depression that is not clinical depression is particularly treatable. There are natural remedies, the above mentioned hormone treatments, and medications for menopause depression. In many cases, a change to a healthy lifestyle may be all that is needed. Consult your doctor before beginning any menopause depression treatment.



Depression Gone

How To Deal With Depression Tip #1

Fish oil supplements. These can be an effective anti-depressant. Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that have been found to suppress feelings of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids can help the brain replenish its supply of DHA fatty acids, which are needed to keep the brain healthy.

How To Deal With Depression Tip #2

B vitamins and folic acid. According to research, the B vitamins are another natural cure for depression. Research has discovered folic acid deficiencies in adults who have depression. Low folic acid levels can cause one to experience bouts of depression. Additionally, low folic acid levels can slow your body’s response to depression medications.

How To Deal With Depression Tip #3

Exercise. A good workout can help alleviate depression. Exercise acts as a mood enhancer. Exercise can enhance the effects of depression medications by helping the body absorb medications better. And exercise encourages the production of endorphins, the “happy mood” chemical.