Peri Menopause Symptoms |
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Experts say that depression is normal for menopausal women but addressed properly so it will not lead to more serious health, emotional and behavioral problems. UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION DURING MENOPAUSE Studies show that 8 to 15 percent of menopausal women experience depression. Experts say that the end of menstruation or menopause triggers episodes of depression and sadness in most women because of drastic hormonal changes. Various researches prove that women who have a history of mood disorders, those who have been depressed before, especially during their 20s, those who underwent surgical or operational procedures, those who are smoking, those dealing with many children, or those who perform work that causes a lot of stress are more likely to develop depression during menopause. Symptoms of depression during menopause include sleeping disorders, hot flushes, loss of energy or fatigue, irritability, anxiety, excessive feeling of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty in concentrating or confusion, decreased interest or pleasure in activities, drastic change in appetite, and two or more weeks of depressed mood that may lead to extreme restlessness and suicidal tendencies.
WHAT YOU CAN DO Although depression is a natural occurrence during menopausal years for only some women, experts say that this should not be neglected because it can lead to more episodes of fluctuating moods and physical implications. Medical authorities agree that depression is treatable when addressed properly. Here are some suggestions and treatment options that can help you cope up with depression during menopause: 1. Consider depression treatments and medications. Seeking help if you are suffering from depression during menopausal years is the first step. Today, there are actually many effective and well-tolerated medications available depending on your need. Being an essential part of treating depression, antidepressant medications such as Selected Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) help to increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. Besides antidepressants, therapies such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Estrogen Therapy can help, especially in the early menopausal stages. Before taking any of these, make sure that you have consulted your physician first so you can discuss the risks and benefits of such treatments and medications. Psychotherapy is also one effective way to combat menopausal depression. With the help of trained social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists, women suffering from depression can learn how to cope up with the negative feelings over the menopausal years. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT that teaches better ways of thinking and behaving and Interpersonal Therapy or IPT that helps the person communicate more effectively are available for you. 2. Schedule for a physical examination. As women grown older, physical changes emerge that may lead to physical health problems. Getting a thorough physical examination is one way to know if you are about to experience any physical ailments caused by depressive symptoms. 3. Try alternative medicines, herbal therapies or remedies, and dietary supplements. Organic and herbal medications have grown popular over the years for their healing properties, but before embarking on any medication at all, be it herbal or prescription, a comlete and full discussion with yuor physician is essential. Be aware that there have been no scientific studies that support the effectivity and safety of most alternative medicine. Before trying any of these herbal or organic products, make sure you inform your physician 4. Engage in physical activities or regular exercise. Experts agree that exercise helps treat depression by releasing your body's mood-elevating hormones that leads to a feeling of accomplishment and enhanced self-esteem. 5. Examine your diet. Dietary changes such as eating a well balanced diet and regularly scheduled meals are known to help a lot in managing depression.
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