If there were one disease brought on by biological factors that’s really difficult to cope with, it would be depression. Depression or the condition of feeling unhappy or despondent-characterized by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, and feelings of extreme sadness, dejection, melancholy, and hopelessness-is one of the noticeable symptoms of menopause especially for women.
Brought on by the falling of serotonin-a hormone in the brain that regulates a person’s mood-levels, depression has been linked to menopause simply because it’s been noticed that women who are on the brink of this phase go through intense mood fluctuations and severe episodes of sadness and confusion.
Experts say that depression is normal for menopausal women but it ought to be dealt with correctly so it wouldn’t cause more serious health, emotional, and behavioral problems.
Understanding DEPRESSION During MENOPAUSE Studies demonstrate that 8 to 15 % of menopausal women go through depression. Specialists say that the end of menstruation or menopause triggers episodes of depression and sadness in most women because of drastic hormonal changes that are left unsettled or not addressed.
Various researches prove that women who have a history of mood disorders, those who have been depressed before-particularly during 20s, those who have underwent surgical or operational procedures, those who are smoking, dealing with a lot of kids, or those who have work which 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, trouble 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 Even though depression is a natural occurrence during menopausal years, specialists say that this shouldn’t be neglected because it can result in more episodes of fluctuating moods and physical implications.Even though it is difficult to handle because it entails emotional and hormonal factors, medical authorities agree that depression is treatable when attended to properly. Here are some suggestions and treatment options which can help you cope up with depression during menopause:
1. Consider depression treatments and medications. Looking for aid if you’re suffering from depression during menopausal years is the first step in curing the “disease.” Today, there are really numerous effective and well-tolerated medications available based on your need. Being an important part of treating depression, antidepressant medications such as Selected Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) assist to increase the amount of serotonin in the brain.Apart from antidepressants, therapies such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Estrogen Therapy can help in especially in early menopausal stages. Prior to taking in any of these, ensure that you have consulted your doctor first so you can discuss the risks and benefits of this kind of treatments and medications. Psychotherapy is also one effective way to combat menopausal depression.
With the aid of trained social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists, you are able to learn how to deal with the negative feelings over menopausal years. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT which teaches better ways of thinking and behaving and Interpersonal Therapy or IPT that helps the individual communicate more effectively are available for you.
2. Schedule for a physical examination. As women grown older, physical changes arise which lead to physical health problems. Getting a thorough physical examination is one way to know if you’re about to go through any physical ailments brought on by depressive symptoms.
3. Try out alternative medicines, herbal therapies or remedies, and dietary supplements. Organic and herbal medications have become well-known the years for its healing properties. These days, the most popular herb used to cure depression is St John’s Wort simply because it can assist reduce effects of estrogen fluctuations.
Although numerous people attest to its effects, there’ve been no scientific studies that support the effectivity and safety of this alternative medicine. Before trying any of these herbal or organic products, be sure you inform your physician so further damage can be avoided particularly if you are under any monitored medication.
4. Engage in physical activities or regular exercise. Experts concur that exercise assists take care of depression by releasing your body’s mood-elevating hormones which leads to a feeling of accomplishment and enhanced self-esteem.
5. Begin changing your diet. Dietary modifications such as eating a well-balanced diet and regularly scheduled meals are known to assist a great deal in managing depression.
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