Menopause and Depression:
When Hormonal Changes Lead to Apathy
All women will experience menopause, and depression is
one of the symptoms. Learn how to recognize some of
the symptoms and what natural medicines can help.
Some women are young when they begin to experience menopause, and depression is the most common symptom.
Along with the possibility of physical pain, you can experience mood swings that can scare you. You know that you used to handle things pretty well, but now you find yourself crying at the drop of a hat or becoming irritable for no apparent reason.
Menopause is a difficult change that can be overwhelming if you don't take care of yourself on all levels.
Stress is a huge contributing factor in how we handle menopausal changes. You can learn more about the symptoms of physical depression from "Conquering Stress," by C.J. Green.
You begin to feel out of control but there is something you should be aware of.
Menopause and depression are interconnected and there are natural teas and poultices that you can use to alleviate some of the physical symptoms, thereby helping with at least part of the depression.
St. John's Wort has been found to be helpful in fighting the symptoms of menopausal depression, as well as Soy products and Iron.
Your herbalist can recommend some soothing teas and tell you which herbs to use in hot poultices for the uterine pain that often accompanies menopause.
There are also some over the counter depression medications that can help restore the bone loss that inevitably follows menopause.
If you continue to take supplements, eat right, and get regular exercise, menopause depression symptoms can be controlled, increasing the quality of your life during this time of change.
If the symptoms of depression persist, see your doctor for a complete check up, as some forms of cancer can become prevalent during menopause.
Therapy may be needed to deal with the emotional changes that you will experience and will help tremendously with the transition.