Post Menopause Mood Swings

Menopause is a natural end to a woman's reproductive cycle, but the mood swings she often experiences feel anything but natural. With the hormonal fluctuations, typical weight gain and other body changes, each day can bring another major change.

Menopause Cycle

A woman goes through a complete cycle of menopause. During the perimenopause time, she may experience hormonal fluctuation. Hot flashes, insomnia, weight loss, weight gain, and other unpleasant symptoms may occur. When she's at the peak of menopause, the symptoms are likely to increase, until she reaches post menopause, which is defined by not having periods for a year or more.

Possible Causes of Changing Moods

As women age, changes in their bodies can lead to depression. Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause severe mood changes. The loss of estrogen affects production of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, and this can result in depression or anxiety. The changes in a woman's body can make her feel as though she's been robbed of her youth. Dryer skin and hair, decreased skin elasticity, and increased wrinkles all seem to appear at the same time.

Mood Swings or Depression?

Most post menopausal woman are able to control slight mood shifts as they occur. However, if the mood swings are severe, they can turn into full blown depression. Look for signs, such as loss of appetite, a weight shift of more than 5% of your total body weight in a month, feelings of hopelessness, short attention span, or suicidal thoughts. If any of these symptoms occur, medical attention is necessary.

Coping with Mood Swings

A combination of diet, exercise, rest, and sleep are critical to the overall health of any woman---especially during post menopause. Nutritional and herbal supplements, such as a high quality B vitamin, St. John's wort, calcium, and magnesium can help. Many women find comfort in support groups---both live and online---because they're able to discuss their thoughts and feelings with others who have experienced the same thing.

Support for All Stages of Menopause

One site that offers support for women at all stages of menopause is called Power Surge. This group offers opportunities to share information and answers to health questions by qualified medical personnel.

References

• Menopause Mood Swings---Riding the Rollercoaster
• Depression and Menopause Explained
• Power Surge