Published: March 26, 2024
Let’s Talk about Menopause
Menopause is the stage when a woman is no longer able to get pregnant and marks the end of a woman’s period and reproductive years. Some women look forward to this change, while others do not. Most women, however, do not welcome the symptoms that come with menopause, particularly when it comes to their mental health.
What is it?
Menopause is a natural biological process that happens as women age (or as a result of a serious illness or medical procedure). Menopause is when your body stops producing the hormones that support having a child. But while most women make up over 50% of the population in the U.S. and go through this process, we are just starting to talk more about it and provide support for what to expect.
For more, visit Mayo Clinic’s excellent piece, Menopause Fact or Fiction, Truth Beyond the Myths.
While age, genetic factors, health, and certain demographic characteristics can be linked to when a female will experience menopause, every woman is different. Most women go through menopause in their mid-40s to mid-50s, but some go through it later or earlier.
What are some mental health symptoms that may come with it?
Symptoms may start during perimenopause and last after menopause. They vary depending on the person and can change over time. Some of the symptoms can start during perimenopause (perhaps starting in your 40s) as women experience irregular periods, hot flashes, and sleep changes.
As menopause progresses, symptoms of mood changes, anxiety, and depression, a lowered sex drive, weight gain, can all be a cause for stress. If you’re dealing with any of these concerns, talk to your doctor. And, if you want to talk to someone to deal with some of the mental health concerns, Optum Behavioral Health’s Live and Work Well site has articles, links/resources and experts who can help. Visit WHA’s behavioral/mental health webpage at mywha.org/bh.